Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog – Post #56

By Jim Gain

7/28/2023

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

About this Species

The Tawny-winged Woodcreeper is one of three Dendrocincla woodcreepers found in Middle America. The present species is distributed from southern Mexico south to southeast Nicaragua on the Caribbean slope, and from Costa Rica to western Panama on the Pacific slope. Contrasting with the distinctly rufous wings and rather short tail, the rest of this mid-sized woodcreeper’s plumage is dark olive-brown, with a marginally paler supercilium and throat; the Tawny-winged Woodcreeper is further characterized by its straight bill and slightly crested appearance.

Tawny-winged Woodcreepers are widely distributed throughout Belize, from sea level to the highest elevations in the Maya Mountains. They are most commonly found in humid forests, but can also be seen in dry forests and secondary growth. The species is known to be a resident breeder in the region, with breeding occurring from March to July.

In terms of natural history, the Tawny-winged Woodcreeper is an insectivorous bird that feeds primarily on insects, spiders, and other arthropods. It is typically observed foraging on tree trunks and branches, using its long bill to probe for prey. The species is also known for its distinctive vocalizations, which include a series of high-pitched trills and whistles. Overall, the Tawny-winged Woodcreeper is a fascinating and important part of the avian community in Belize’s forests.

>> Next Post on Sunday, 7/30/2023 – Rose-throated Becard

Previous posts from Beautiful Birds of Belize Blog

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