Habitat:
Tropical forests, subtropical forests, wooded areas

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Red-stained Woodpecker, or Dryobates kirkii, is a small woodpecker known for its red and brown plumage. It primarily inhabits the tropical and subtropical forests of South America, particularly in Colombia, Venezuela, and Brazil. This woodpecker is recognizable by its reddish head in males, while females have a more subdued cap. It feeds mainly on insects, which it extracts by drumming on tree bark. Although discreet, its drumming is often audible in its natural habitat. It plays a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling insect populations and creating tree cavities that serve as nests for other species.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Red-stained Woodpecker, it is advisable to use a 400mm lens or longer to capture precise details without disturbing the bird. Look for areas where drumming is audible, as this often indicates the bird's presence. Be patient and discreet, as although suspicious, the Red-stained Woodpecker can be observed when focused on foraging. The best times to photograph it are early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when the light is soft and highlights the colors of its plumage.