Picus squamatus
The Scaly-bellied Woodpecker (Picus squamatus) is a striking medium-sized avian resident of the Himalayas and surrounding regions, immediately recognizable by its distinctive plumage. Measuring approximately 32-34 cm (12.5-13.5 inches) in length and weighing between 140-200g, it boasts olive-green upperparts contrasted with pale underparts heavily marked with dark, scale-like barring, which gives the species its evocative common name. A prominent feature on males is a brilliant crimson crown ...
Predominantly inhabits subtropical and temperate broadleaf forests, mixed woodlands, and coniferous forests, often with a preference for open country with scattered trees. It is typically found at elevations ranging from 900 to 3,700 meters, showing altitudinal movements seasonally.
Primarily consumes ants and their larvae, as well as beetle larvae extracted from decaying wood, supplemented seasonally by a variety of fruits and berries. It forages by drilling, probing, and gleaning on tree trunks and occasionally on the ground.
Scaly-bellied Woodpeckers are diurnal, actively foraging throughout the day and roosting in tree cavities at night. Their foraging strategy involves extensive drilling and excavating into decaying wood and bark, often targeting large ant nests within trees or on the ground, utilizing a remarkably...
The Scaly-bellied Woodpecker boasts an extensive range across the Indian subcontinent and parts of Central Asia. Its primary breeding range stretches along the Himalayas, from eastern Afghanistan through Pakistan, northern India, Nepal, Bhutan, and extending into western Myanmar. This species is ...
Least Concern
- The 'scaly' pattern on its belly is an excellent camouflage against mottled tree bark, helping it blend into its environment and evade predators. - Unlike many woodpeckers that prefer hard, living wood, the Scaly-bellied Woodpecker often targets decaying trees to access its preferred ant and be...