The
Cuban green woodpecker (
Xiphidiopicus percussus) is a species of bird in the family
Picidae. It is the
only species within the genus
Xiphidiopicus and is
endemic to Cuba. A distinctive, relatively small woodpecker of the general size and shape of a
sapsucker, the Cuban green woodpecker occasionally appears
crested, with bright olive-green overparts and yellow underparts. The nape and upper breast are bright red, with some black bases to feathers usually visible, with a black chin and throat; the
crown is red in males and black with white stripes in females. Females are significantly smaller than the male and generally shorter-billed. Juveniles are generally duller in plumage, showing more barring and streaking below. It typically measures 21 to 25 cm (8.3 to 9.8 in) in length and weighs 48 to 97 g (1.7 to 3.4 oz). This picture shows a female
X. p. percussus individual.
Photograph credit: Charles J. Sharp