Grey-breasted woodpecker facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Grey-breasted woodpecker |
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Melanerpes
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| Species: |
hypopolius
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The grey-breasted woodpecker (Melanerpes hypopolius) is a type of bird that belongs to the Picidae family. It lives only in the southwestern part of Mexico. This special bird was first described in 1829.
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Where the Grey-Breasted Woodpecker Lives
The grey-breasted woodpecker makes its home in the states of Guerrero, Morelos, and Puebla in Mexico. These birds like to live in warm, wet forests that are not too high up. They also enjoy shrubland areas found in high mountains.
Sleeping Habits of the Woodpecker
These woodpeckers are known for their interesting sleeping habits. They often sleep together in groups. They especially like to roost, or sleep, inside large cacti. This behavior helps them stay safe and warm at night.
What the Grey-Breasted Woodpecker Looks Like
The grey-breasted woodpecker has a unique look. It is similar to the Gila woodpecker, but with some key differences. Male grey-breasted woodpeckers have a pale red patch on their cheek. They also have a short black line above their eye. Their chest and head are much darker and grayer than other woodpeckers.
How Many Grey-Breasted Woodpeckers Exist
There are nearly 50,000 grey-breasted woodpeckers living in Mexico. Because there are so many of them, scientists consider this species to be of "least concern" for extinction. This means they are not currently in danger of disappearing.
What the Grey-Breasted Woodpecker Eats
The grey-breasted woodpecker has a varied diet. A big part of their food comes from the fruit of cacti. Other animals like the grey fox and cactus wren also enjoy this fruit.
Hunting for Insects
Besides fruit, these woodpeckers also love to eat insects. Groups of 3 to 10 birds will search for food together. They look for insects like cicadas and termites. Sometimes, they even catch flies! These birds work together peacefully to find their meals. They do not fight over food.
Life Cycle and Young Woodpeckers
Young grey-breasted woodpeckers, called fledglings, behave a bit differently from other woodpecker species. They do not beg their parents for food or attention. This is especially true when they are out in the open.
Hidden Fledglings
Fledglings spend most of their time hidden inside cacti. They do not seem to eat very often when they are visible. The feathers of a young woodpecker are also different from an adult's. Their necks and chests are darker. The red patch on their head is also much darker than an adult's.
Sounds the Grey-Breasted Woodpecker Makes
Scientists have observed three main types of sounds from the grey-breasted woodpecker. One sound is a loud, aggressive-sounding rattle. Females make a "chuck" sound when someone gets too close to their nests. They also make a "yak" sound that has a strong tone.
