The Olive Woodpecker is a subtly colored species of Southern Africa, characterized by its olive-green upperparts, pale underparts with light barring, and a red cap in males. It is typically found in denser forests.
Where to spot
Inhabits evergreen forests, coastal forests, and dense woodlands in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
How to spot
Its olive plumage provides excellent camouflage, so listen carefully for its quiet pecking or soft, repeated calls. Scan dense foliage and the undersides of branches for movement.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its forest habitat. Active during daylight hours, often more visible in the mornings.
Where to spot
Inhabits evergreen forests, coastal forests, and dense woodlands in Southern Africa, including South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.
How to spot
Its olive plumage provides excellent camouflage, so listen carefully for its quiet pecking or soft, repeated calls. Scan dense foliage and the undersides of branches for movement.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its forest habitat. Active during daylight hours, often more visible in the mornings.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Unlike many woodpeckers that forage on exposed trunks, the Olive Woodpecker often specializes in gleaning insects from the undersides of branches and in dense foliage, making it a more elusive species.
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