description Olive Woodpecker Overview
The olive woodpecker (Dendropicos griseocephalus) is a medium-sized bird species widely distributed across the montane and coastal forests of sub-Saharan Africa. Its range extends from the highlands of Ethiopia down through East Africa to the eastern regions of South Africa. It is characterized by its olive-brown plumage, a distinctive red rump, and a barred underbelly. The males of the species are further identified by a red patch on the crown of their heads.
help Olive Woodpecker FAQ
What is the scientific name and family of the olive woodpecker?
The olive woodpecker is Dendropicos griseocephalus in the woodpecker family Picidae. Pieter Boddaert coined the binomial name in 1783, and some older sources use the genus Mesopicos. [BirdGuides](https://www.birdguides.com/species-guide/ioc/dendropicos-griseocephalus/)
Where does the olive woodpecker live?
Its range is patchy across sub-Saharan Africa, including montane and foothill forest from Angola and northern Namibia east toward Tanzania, plus parts of Uganda, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Mozambique, and South Africa. It favors evergreen forest, dense woodland, thickets, and coastal bush rather than open farmland. [Avibase](https://avibase.bsc-eoc.org/species.jsp?avibaseid=02E004AD)
How does the olive woodpecker nest?
Both sexes excavate a rounded cavity in a tree trunk, where the pair raises its brood. South African field references report a small clutch of 2 to 3 eggs, incubation by both parents for roughly 15 to 16 days, and fledging at about 24 to 26 days. [Biodiversity Explorer](https://www.biodiversityexplorer.info/birds/picidae/dendropicos_griseocephalus.htm)
Is the olive woodpecker endangered?
The species is currently assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN, although local populations still depend on intact forest. In South Africa it is a regular bird of montane and evergreen forests, including protected areas such as Karkloof. [BirdGuides](https://www.birdguides.com/species-guide/ioc/dendropicos-griseocephalus/) [BirdLife South Africa](https://www.birdlife.org.za/iba-directory/karkloof/)
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