Brown-fronted Woodpecker
NameBrown-fronted Woodpecker
Common NameBrown-fronted Woodpecker
Scientific NameDendrocopos auriceps
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)40
Plumage DetailsMales have a brown forehead, yellow crown, and a prominent red nape. Females lack the red nape, having only a brown forehead and yellow crown. Both sexes have a white supercilium, a dark malar stripe, and white underparts heavily barred with dark streaks. The back and wings are black with white barring, and the undertail coverts are a distinctive reddish-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, metallic 'chik' or 'kik' call, often repeated. They also produce a characteristic drumming sound on trees, which is a rapid series of taps.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas, ranging from eastern Afghanistan through northern Pakistan, northern India, and Nepal. It inhabits subtropical and temperate montane forests.
Identifying FeaturesBrown forehead, Yellow crown (male with red nape), White supercilium, Dark malar stripe, Barred underparts, Reddish-orange vent
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its distinctive head pattern, featuring a brown forehead, yellow crown, and a red nape in males. It forages primarily on tree trunks and branches, using its strong bill to extract insects from wood. Its plumage is a striking mix of black, white, and reddish-orange.
