White-naped Woodpecker

Overview

The white-naped woodpecker (Chrysocolaptes festivus) is a widespread but scarce breeder in the Indian subcontinent. It is a large woodpecker associated with open forest and scrub environments containing some trees.

Identification

• Size: A large species measuring 29 cm in length with a typical woodpecker shape.
• Plumage: Golden yellow upperparts and wings with a white hind neck and black shoulder patches forming a V-shape; white underparts with dark chevron markings.
• Head: Whitish head with a dark moustache stripe and a black eye patch extending down the neck sides; adult males have a red crown while females have a yellow crown.
• Structure: Features a straight pointed bill, a stiff tail for support against tree trunks, and zygodactyl feet with two toes pointing forward and two backward.

Habitat

This species inhabits open forest and scrub with some trees across the Indian subcontinent. The nominate subspecies is found in central and south India, while a distinct subspecies occurs in Sri Lanka.

Did you know?

The genus name Chrysocolaptes is derived from the Ancient Greek words for 'gold' and 'chiseller', while the specific epithet festivus is Latin for 'festive' or 'cheerful'.