Speckle-throated Woodpecker

The Speckle-throated Woodpecker, Campethera scriptoricauda, is a bird of remarkable plumage, predominantly greenish above with a yellowish barring that imparts a slightly more yellow hue than its cousin, the Nubian Woodpecker. Below, it is a pale yellowish colour, adorned with black speckles that extend forward through the throat, a distinctive feature separating it from both the Nubian and Bennett's Woodpeckers. Its bill is a pale shade, often described as yellow or off-white.

Identification Tips

When observing this species, look for the unique speckles on its throat, a key identifier. The bird's overall yellowish-green appearance and pale bill are also helpful characteristics for identification in the field.

Habitat

The Speckle-throated Woodpecker is known to favour open woodlands, with a particular affinity for broad-leaved woodland accompanied by an understory of tall grass.

Distribution

This East African woodpecker graces the open woodlands of Mozambique, between Beira and the lower Zambezi river, central and southeastern Malawi, and eastern and central Tanzania. It can be found as far north as Handeni, in the North Pare Mountains, and around the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro. There are historical records of its presence around Mombasa in Kenya.

Song & Calls

In Tanzania, the Speckle-throated Woodpecker is known to vocalize a series of "wi-wi-wi-wi-wi" sounds and a short "churr." In Mozambique, its calls are likely indistinguishable from those of Bennett's Woodpecker.

Similar Species

The Speckle-throated Woodpecker can be confused with the Nubian and Bennett's Woodpeckers. However, the speckles on the throat and the slightly yellower appearance help distinguish it from these similar species.

Conservation status

The Speckle-throated Woodpecker is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that, at present, there are no immediate threats to its population numbers that would warrant a higher level of concern.