Medium-sized woodpecker of rainforest. Note compact shape and uniform brown coloration with a pale bill. Often with mixed-species flocks, occurring from the mid-story to the canopy. Also occurs in lower-stature forests with sandy soils. Climbs trunks and large branches in typical woodpecker fashion; explores bark crevices and arboreal termite nests. Usually first detected by distinctive call. Superficially similar to Chestnut Woodpecker but is less richly colored and much smaller.