Robust Woodpecker vs Rufous-headed Woodpecker

In short

The Robust Woodpecker and Rufous-headed Woodpecker can be distinguished by head coloration and habitat preference. The Robust Woodpecker has a virtually all-red head, while the Rufous-headed Woodpecker's head is rufous. Habitat also differs, with the Robust Woodpecker favoring humid forests with tall trees, while the Rufous-headed Woodpecker is often detected by its gentle tapping on bamboo stalks.

Identification tips

1. Look for the head color: virtually all-red for the Robust Woodpecker and rufous for the Rufous-headed Woodpecker. 2. Check the habitat: Robust Woodpecker in humid forests with tall trees, Rufous-headed Woodpecker near bamboo. 3. Listen for the Rufous-headed Woodpecker's faint call or tapping on bamboo.

Plumage

The Robust Woodpecker has a virtually all-red head, with males showing a small white and black spot on the ear covers, and females displaying a pale stripe from the bill base to behind the eyes. The Rufous-headed Woodpecker has a rufous head, which is a key distinguishing feature.

Habitat

The Robust Woodpecker is found in humid forests dominated by tall trees in southern Bahia, Brazil, eastern Paraguay, and northeast Argentina. In contrast, the Rufous-headed Woodpecker is often associated with bamboo habitats.

Voice

The Rufous-headed Woodpecker's call is a somewhat faint 'hee-er-er-er-er-er,' and it is often detected by its gentle tapping on bamboo stalks. There is no vocalization information provided for the Robust Woodpecker.