The Grey Woodpecker (Dendropicos goertae) is a widespread and frequently common resident breeder in much of equatorial Africa.
This species is associated with forests and bushes.
It is frequently seen, and regularly taps or drums.
Description:
The Grey Woodpecker has a straight pointed bill, a stiff tail to provide support against tree trunks, and zygodactyl or “yoked” feet, with two toes pointing forward, and two backward. .
This bird is about 8 inches or 20cm long.
It is a typical woodpecker shape, and has unmarked green upperparts and a pale grey head and underparts. The rump is red, and there is a small red belly patch. The short tail is blackish.
The adult male Grey Woodpecker has a red crown.
Females have a plain grey head, lacking the red crown.
Young birds are like the female, but the reds are paler, and there may be some flank barring.
Diet:
Grey Woodpecker’s mainly eat insects. The long tongue dart quickly forward to capture insects
Nesting
Grey Woodpeckers typically nest in tree holes – often in Oil Palms. The average clutch consists of 2 to 4 eggs.
Call / Song:
The call is a loud and fast peet-peet-peet-peet.
Member of the Picidae Family: Woodpeckers … Sapsuckers … Flickers
