Picus chlorolophus
The Lesser Yellownape (Picus chlorolophus) is a vibrant medium-sized woodpecker, measuring approximately 27-29 cm (10.6-11.4 inches) in length and weighing around 90-130 grams (3.2-4.6 oz). Its striking plumage features a predominantly olive-green back and wings, a bright golden-yellow nape, and a prominent red crest in both sexes. Males are distinguished by a bright red malar stripe, while females possess a black malar stripe. This species belongs to the Picidae family, sharing its genus *Pi...
This adaptable woodpecker primarily inhabits moist deciduous and evergreen forests, woodlands, and secondary growth, often preferring forest edges or clearings, from plains up to elevations of 3,000 meters (10,000 feet).
Their diet primarily consists of insects, especially ants and termites, along with their larvae and pupae, which they extract from decaying wood and ground with their specialized tongues.
Lesser Yellownapes are diurnal, typically found singly or in pairs, actively foraging throughout the day and roosting in tree cavities at night. They employ a variety of foraging techniques, including probing bark crevices with their long tongues, gleaning insects from foliage, and drumming on tr...
The Lesser Yellownape boasts a wide and stable distribution across South and Southeast Asia. Its breeding range extends from the lower Himalayas in northern India, Nepal, and Bhutan, eastward through Bangladesh and Myanmar, across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and into southern China, includ...
Least Concern
- The Lesser Yellownape is one of several "green woodpeckers" in the genus *Picus*, known for their predominantly green plumage. - Unlike many woodpeckers that drum primarily to find food, the Lesser Yellownape also uses drumming extensively for communication, especially during courtship. - Its d...