The Black-cheeked WoodpeckerMelanerpes pucherani, is a resident breeding bird from southeastern Mexico south to western Ecuador. This woodpecker occurs in the higher levels of wet forests, semi-open woodland and old second growth. The binomial commemorates the French zoologist Jacques Pucheran. The Black-cheeked Woodpecker feeds on insects, but will take substantial quantities of fruit and nectar.
It has a bright red cap, yellow forecrown, white breast, black and white lined abdomen, and black back with white stripes. These photos were taken at Cano Negro and Rancho Naturalista Costa Rica.