Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #50

By Jim Gain

7/14/2023

• Scientific Name: Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae
• Name in Spanish (Mexico): Trepatroncos Barrado
• Name in Mayan: Tata’k che’i
• ABA 4-Letter Bird Code: NOBW
• Family: Furnariidae – Ovenbirds and Woodcreepers
• Order: Passeriformes – Perching Birds

About this Species

The Northern Barred-Woodcreeper (Dendrocolaptes sanctithomae) is a medium-sized bird found in the tropical forests of Central and South America, including Belize. This species has a distinctive appearance, with head, back and underparts brown, evenly barred with dusky, becoming faintest on back, with lower back, wings and tail uniform rufous-chestnut; bill heavy, straight and brownish black.

In Belize, the Northern Barred-Woodcreeper is found in the lowland and foothill forests of the Maya Mountains and the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. It is a relatively common species in these areas, though it can be difficult to spot due to its shy and elusive nature. Like many woodcreeper species, the Northern Barred-Woodcreeper feeds on insects, which it forages for by climbing tree trunks and probing crevices with its bill.

In terms of natural history, the Northern Barred-Woodcreeper is known to breed in Belize during the rainy season, which typically runs from May to November. During this time, males will establish territories and sing to attract mates. Females will then build nests out of twigs and leaves, typically in tree cavities or other concealed locations. Once the eggs are laid, both parents will take turns incubating them and caring for the chicks.

>> Next Post on Sunday, 7/16/2023 – Clay-colored Thrush

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

• White Ibis
• Limpkin
• Anhinga
• Scaly-breasted Hummingbird
• Gray-breasted Martin