Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker

The Japanese pygmy woodpecker, known scientifically as Yungipicus kizuki, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 13–15 cm in length. Its plumage is a subtle blend of greys and browns, with the crown donning a grey-brown hue. A distinctive white supercilium extends from above the eye to the neck and breast, contrasting with the brown ear coverts. A white moustachial stripe and a grey-brown malar stripe adorn its face, while the chin and throat boast a pristine white. The mantle and back are dark brown, adorned with white bars, and the wings are brownish-black with similar white barring. The tail feathers are blackish with white bars on the outer feathers. The iris is a warm chestnut, the beak blackish, and the legs a soft grey. Males can be identified by a small red mark on the side of the nape, a feature absent in females.

Identification Tips

To distinguish the Japanese pygmy woodpecker, look for its small stature and the pattern of white and brown barring across its back and wings. The male's subtle red nape mark is a key identifier, as is the bird's size, with females generally having slightly longer beaks, wings, and tails. Juveniles may have streaked throats, and the bird's size and coloration can vary slightly from north to south within its range.

Habitat

This woodpecker favors a variety of wooded environments, from coniferous to deciduous forests. It is also comfortable in both lowland and upland areas, as well as riverine forests. Adaptable to human presence, it can be found in parks and gardens.

Distribution

The species is widespread across Korea, northeastern China, southeastern Siberia, Sakhalin, Japan, and the Ryukyu Islands. It is known to inhabit elevations up to 2,100 meters.

Behaviour

The Japanese pygmy woodpecker is often seen in pairs or as part of mixed-species foraging flocks. It is an active hunter of invertebrates such as spiders, caterpillars, ants, and aphids, and also consumes berries. Its calls include a high "tsi-tsi-tsi" and a quick drumming sound. Breeding commences in March in the southern parts of its range and in late May further north. Nest holes are typically excavated in dead branches.

Song & Calls

The bird's vocal repertoire consists of "khit" and "kzz" notes, and its drumming is characterized by weak, short bursts.

Breeding

Nesting begins in early spring, with the bird carving out a nest hole in a dead branch. The eggs are white and approximately 19 mm by 15 mm in size. Clutches usually contain five to seven eggs, which are incubated for 12 to 14 days. Fledglings leave the nest after about three weeks.

Similar Species

While there are no similar species provided in the source, it is important to note that the Japanese pygmy woodpecker can be confused with other small woodpeckers or juveniles of larger species. Careful observation of its distinctive markings and size is necessary for accurate identification.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Japanese pygmy woodpecker includes a variety of invertebrates and berries, which it forages from trees.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Japanese pygmy woodpecker as a species of Least Concern, indicating a stable population across its large range.