Malabar Flameback
NameMalabar Flameback
Common NameMalabar Flameback
Scientific NameDinopium malabaricum
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsMales have a full crimson crest, while females have a black forecrown speckled with white and red on the rear crest. Both sexes feature a black hindneck, a white supercilium, a black eye-stripe, and a prominent black moustachial stripe. The back and wing-coverts are golden-yellow to rufous-brown, with a crimson rump. Underparts are white with heavy black scaling or spotting.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a loud, rattling series of notes, often described as 'ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ki-ki' or a rapid 'chick-chick-chick'. Like other woodpeckers, it also engages in drumming on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Western Ghats and associated hill ranges of southwestern India.
Identifying FeaturesRed crest (male), Golden-yellow to rufous-brown back, Black and white striped facial pattern, White underparts with black scaling, Long, chisel-like bill
Description
The Malabar Flameback is a medium-sized woodpecker endemic to southwestern India, characterized by its striking plumage 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.
