Himalayan Flameback
NameHimalayan Flameback
Common NameHimalayan Flameback
Scientific NameDinopium shorii
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)30.5
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsMales have a full red crest, while females have a black forecrown streaked with white and a red hindcrown. Both sexes feature a black nape, a white supercilium, a black eye-stripe, and a prominent black moustachial stripe. The back and wings are a striking golden-yellow to orange-red, contrasting with a black rump and tail. Underparts are pale with dark streaking.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, ringing 'ki-ki-ki-ki-ki' or 'chick-chick-chick' call, often descending in pitch. Like other woodpeckers, it also drums on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayan foothills, extending from northern India eastward through Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and into parts of Myanmar and Thailand.
Identifying FeaturesRed crest (male), Golden-orange back and wings, Black and white striped head pattern, Woodpecker morphology
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its vibrant golden-orange back and a prominent red crest in males. It is typically found foraging on tree trunks and branches in various forest types, using its strong bill to extract insects.
