Sind Woodpecker

The Sind woodpecker, a member of the Picidae family, is a bird of striking black and white plumage. It is distinguished by its smaller stature when compared to the Syrian woodpecker, and it sports a slender mustache stripe. The back is adorned with an abundance of white feathers, and the beak is notably smaller. This species is characterized by white shoulder patches and bars on its black feathers, making it the sole black and white woodpecker within its range.

Identification Tips

When observing the Sind woodpecker, look for its diminutive size relative to similar species. The thin mustache stripe and the white shoulder patches are key identifiers. Additionally, the excessive white on the back and the smaller beak can help distinguish it from other woodpeckers in the region.

Habitat

The Sind woodpecker is known to inhabit tropical and subtropical dry forests, riverine forests, thorny shrub-lands, dry scrub-lands, and wetlands, including freshwater springs and oases. It also adapts well to rural gardens and plantations.

Distribution

This resident bird is native to the Sindh province of Pakistan, parts of India, and southern Iran. It can be found at altitudes up to 2,200 meters.

Behaviour

The Sind woodpecker is a non-migratory bird, with populations typically dispersing locally after the breeding season. It has a moderate reliance on forested environments.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Sind woodpecker primarily consists of insects such as woodboring beetles, larvae, spiders, and ants. It forages for these prey items within its varied habitats.

Breeding

The breeding season for the Sind woodpecker occurs between March and April. These monogamous birds share the responsibility of raising their young. They nest in tree holes that they excavate themselves. Clutches usually contain 3 to 5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents. After 12 days of incubation, the chicks hatch and fledge approximately 20 days later. Juveniles then disperse to new locations.

Conservation status

The Sind woodpecker is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List. While the global population has not been thoroughly evaluated, it is generally considered stable and locally common within its range. The species has a lifespan of about 5.2 years and occupies a distribution size of around 1,490,000 square kilometers. Deforestation poses a significant threat to its habitat and overall population stability.