The Blood-colored Woodpecker is only found in Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana and is confined to the coastal lowlands thereof, where it is found in a variety of wooded habitats, including mangroves and plantations.
The species is reasonably common, but relatively inconspicuous, as singles or pairs generally remain low above or on the ground, and are not especially vocal.
The deep red upperparts, which extend over the head in males, contrast with the dark and pale-barred underparts, and are unique.

A female.
Hotel De Plantage area, Tamanredjo, Commewijne, Suriname, 20 October 2016