Blond-crested Woodpecker vs Golden-green Woodpecker

In short

To distinguish the Blond-crested Woodpecker from the Golden-green Woodpecker, focus on the head and plumage patterns. The Blond-crested has a distinctive blond crest, while the Golden-green features a red crown in males and a yellow moustachial stripe. Both species are found in forested habitats but differ in their specific preferences.

Identification tips

1. Look for the blond crest on the Blond-crested Woodpecker. 2. Note the red crown and yellow moustachial stripe on male Golden-green Woodpeckers. 3. Observe the olive-green upperparts of the Golden-green Woodpecker. 4. Consider habitat: Blond-crested may be in varied forests, while Golden-green prefers Amazonian lowlands.

Size

Both species are medium-sized woodpeckers, but there is no significant size difference noted between them.

Plumage

The Blond-crested Woodpecker has a striking blond crest and generally paler plumage. In contrast, the Golden-green Woodpecker is olive-green above with a red crown in males and a yellow moustachial stripe, with females lacking the red crown and having green in those areas.

Behaviour

Both species forage alone or in pairs, but the Golden-green Woodpecker is noted for being part of mixed-species flocks.

Habitat

The Blond-crested Woodpecker is typically found in a variety of forested habitats, while the Golden-green Woodpecker is more associated with lowland forested areas, including terra firme and seasonally flooded regions in Amazonia.