Northern Grey-headed Woodpecker

The Northern Grey-headed Woodpecker occupies woodland and forest edge habitat across West and Central Africa. It shares the grey head and olive-green back typical of the broader grey-headed woodpecker group found across sub-Saharan Africa, with this species occupying the more northerly portion of that group's range.

It is generally found in a mix of woodland types rather than dense unbroken forest interior.

• Head and face feathers are grey, contrasting with an olive-green back and wings
• Males show a red patch on the crown, while females lack red entirely on the head
• Underparts are a duller olive-grey, without strong barring or spotting
• Flight feathers are olive-brown, generally unbarred or only faintly patterned
• Tail feathers are dark and stiffened for trunk support

Males show a red crown patch on an otherwise grey head; females lack red and show an entirely grey crown. Juveniles are duller with a less defined grey-olive contrast. A single molt follows the breeding season.

• Found across parts of West and Central Africa
• Favors woodland, forest edge, and adjacent semi-open habitat
• Resident, non-migratory

This species forages on trunks and branches, taking insects and occasionally other invertebrates, and is often located by its calls before being seen. It drums to advertise territory, particularly during the breeding season. Nest cavities are excavated in dead wood within its woodland habitat.