Welcome back, nature enthusiasts, to another feathered friend gracing our Costa Rican mountain retreat! Today, we turn our gaze to a vibrant resident of the rainforests – the Rufous-winged Woodpecker (Piculus simplex). While its name might lead you to expect a prominent display of rufous feathers on its wings, this little critter offers a delightful surprise.

A Jewel of the Rainforest

Imagine this: You’re taking a tranquil walk along our rainforest trails, sunlight dappling through the emerald canopy. A flurry of movement catches your eye, and a flash of red darts across the trunk of a giant tree. It’s the Rufous-winged Woodpecker, a compact gem measuring just 18 centimeters (7.1 inches) in length.

Distinctive Markings

Despite its name, the rufous on the Rufous-winged Woodpecker is much subtler than you might expect. Look for a hint of cinnamon-rufous on the flight feathers and outer tail edges. The true stars of the show are the head markings.

• Males: These dashing fellows sport a stunning red crown that extends to the hindneck and down the cheeks like a bold mustache. The rest of the face is a handsome brownish green, creating a striking contrast.
• Females: While lacking the extensive red of the males, females are no less beautiful. Their heads are primarily brownish olive, with a touch of red gracing the nape and hindneck.

Both sexes share a stunning bronze-green upper body, a barred olive belly, and a pale eye that adds a touch of inquisitive charm.

Drumming Up a Life

The Rufous-winged Woodpecker is a vital part of the rainforest ecosystem. They play an essential role in pest control by drumming and excavating for insects hidden beneath the bark. Their loud, sharp drumming sound is a familiar rhythm in the rainforest, a reminder of their industrious nature.

These woodpeckers are primarily insectivores, but their diet isn’t limited to just bugs. They’ll also readily consume fruits and seeds, making them valuable dispersers of rainforest flora.

A Glimpse of Paradise

The Rufous-winged Woodpecker prefers the cool, humid embrace of subtropical and tropical moist lowland forests. Here at our mountain retreat, you have a high chance of encountering these delightful birds in the dense rainforests that surround our property.

Keep your eyes peeled for their flitting forms and listen for their rhythmic drumming as you explore the lush trails. With a bit of patience, you might just be rewarded with a glimpse of this vibrant woodpecker, a dazzling splash of red amidst the verdant rainforest.

Do you have any questions about the Rufous-winged Woodpecker or other Costa Rican birds? Leave a comment below, and we’ll be happy to share more about the incredible avian diversity of our country!

For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica

This post is also available in: Français (French) Español (Spanish)