Celeus (bird)
| Celeus | |
|---|---|
.jpg) |
|
| Chestnut woodpecker (Celeus elegans) | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Piciformes |
| Family: | Picidae |
| Genus: |
Celeus F. Boie, 1831 |
| Species | |
|
see text |
|
see text
Celeus is a genus in the family Picidae of woodpeckers found in tropical and subtropical forests and woodlands of Central and South America. The genus contains 15 extant species. One, Kaempfer's woodpecker (C. obrieni), was believed to be extinct until a specimen was caught in 2006.
The species in the genus are medium-sized, 19 – 32 cm in length (with C. elegans the longest), and weigh between 63 and 172 grams. They have limited plumage colour with the head and crest mainly lighter in colour. The feet, tail, tongue and bill of the birds in the genus are adapted for the specialised resources required for its survival and reproduction (for example breeding sites and large food supplies). They are native residents and do not migrate. They are generally insectivorous but will eat seeds and fruits. The birds are monogamous with both sexes sharing nest and brooding care. Some species nest communally. Many live near humans but are seen as destructive in agricultural areas.
The birds of the Celeus genus generally weigh between 63 – 172 gm, the heaviest of this genus is the scaly-breasted woodpecker (C. grammicus). Length, from tip of bill to tip of the tail, is between 19–32 cm. They are generally not sexually dimorphic and have evolved specialised morphology to match their unique lifestyle.
The Celeus beak differs from other woodpeckers in that it is mainly curved, not long and without nostril feathers. Like other woodpeckers its beak has a chisel like cutting edge. A hard rhamphotheca and complex beak microstructures strengthen the bill for pounding and drilling.
The tail has evolved for support, clinging and climbing, acting as a third leg or tripod. The pygostyle (tail vertebrae) is larger for strong tail muscles to be inserted and it is more or less stiff. There are six pairs of tail feathers, the middle feathers of which have strong central shafts for extra support.
...
Wikipedia