Very large woodcreeper of pine-oak and evergreen forest in highlands and foothills; also occurs locally in lowlands. Forages mainly at middle to upper levels on large trunks and branches, often at big bromeliads; frequently travels with mixed-species feeding flocks that include jays and orioles. Inconspicuous, despite its large size. Note very large size, long and very stout grayish bill, and fine pale streaks limited to the head and breast.