GREATER YELLOW-NAPED WOODPECKER
Chrysophlegma flavinucha
DESCRIPTION
The Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker is a striking bird known for its vibrant yellow nape and contrasting black and white plumage. Males are distinguished by a red crown, while females lack this feature, showcasing sexual dimorphism. This woodpecker is often found in pairs or small groups, actively foraging on tree trunks and branches, where it drums to communicate and establish territory.
FUN FACTS
- The Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker is known for its impressive drumming ability, which can be heard from a distance and is used to communicate with other woodpeckers
- This species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by helping to control insect populations and creating nesting cavities that can be used by other birds and animals after they abandon them
- | Woodpeckers have a unique adaptation in their skull structure that allows them to peck at hard surfaces without damaging their brains
- The Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker, like other woodpeckers, has a specialized tongue that can extend far beyond its beak, allowing it to extract insects from deep within tree bark
QUICK INFO
Lifespan10-15 years in the wild
Average Weight70-100 g
Average Length25-30 cm
Diet TypeInsectivore
Social StructureTypically found in pairs or small groups, they exhibit a social structure that is somewhat territorial.
Activity PatternDiurnal
Breeding SeasonSpring (March-May)
- Habitat
- This species inhabits tropical and subtropical forests, favoring areas with large trees for nesting and foraging. It is often found in both primary and secondary forests, as well as in forest edges.
- Biomes
- Tropical Rainforest, Subtropical Forest
- Native Range
- The Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker is native to Southeast Asia, particularly found in countries like Myanmar, Thailand, and Laos.
- Continent
- Asia
- Countries
- Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam
- Diet
- The Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker primarily feeds on insects, particularly ants and beetles, as well as larvae found in decaying wood. It may also consume fruits and seeds occasionally.
- Diet Type
- Insectivore
- Favorite Food
- insects, larvae
- Social Structure
- Typically found in pairs or small groups, they exhibit a social structure that is somewhat territorial.
- Activity Pattern
- Diurnal
- Group Size
- 2-6
- Territorial
- 1
LC
70-100 g
Weight
25-30 cm
Length
- Coloration
- Black and white with a bright yellow nape and red crown in males.
- Sexual Dimorphism
- Males have a red crown, while females do not.
- Lifespan
- 10-15 years in the wild
- Offspring per Birth
- 2-4
- Sexual Maturity
- 1-2 years
- Breeding Season
- Spring (March-May)
LC
Least Concern
IUCN Red List Status
- Population Status
- The population is currently stable, but habitat loss poses a potential threat.
- Wild Population Estimate
- Unknown
- Population Trend
- Stable
- Endangered
- 0
- Threats
- Habitat destruction due to logging and agricultural expansion is the main threat to this species. Additionally, climate change may impact its habitat and food sources.
- Predators
- Snakes, larger birds of prey, and mammals such as cats may prey on the Greater Yellow-naped Woodpecker.
- Defense Mechanisms
- They use their ability to drum and call to establish territory and warn off intruders.
- Found in Zoos
- Uncommon