Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus
The Greater Flameback, *Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus*, is a truly magnificent and conspicuous member of the woodpecker family, Picidae, renowned for its striking plumage and powerful presence. Measuring approximately 30-34 cm (12-13.5 inches) in length and weighing 140-200 grams, it is one of the largest woodpeckers in its range. Its most distinctive feature is the brilliant golden-yellow to fiery red back and rump, contrasting sharply with its black and white checkered face and prominent cr...
Found primarily in tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, deciduous woodlands, and occasionally mangroves or plantations, from sea level up to moderate elevations of 1,100-1,700 meters depending on the region.
Their diet consists mainly of insects, particularly wood-boring beetle larvae, ants, and termites, extracted from trees. They also supplement their diet with fruits, berries, and nectar.
Greater Flamebacks are diurnal and primarily solitary or found in pairs, maintaining year-round residency within their territories. They are highly arboreal, spending most of their time scaling large tree trunks and branches in search of food. Their foraging technique is robust, involving powerfu...
The Greater Flameback is a widespread resident breeder across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. Its range extends from India (east of Pakistan) and Sri Lanka, through Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It also inhabits the Malay Peninsula, Singapo...
Least Concern
- The Greater Flameback's genus name, *Chrysocolaptes*, literally means 'golden chiseler' from Greek, perfectly describing its golden back and powerful pecking ability. - Its scientific name *guttacristatus* refers to its spotted crest, derived from Latin 'gutta' (spot) and 'cristatus' (crested)....