Black-rumped Flameback

The Black-rumped Flameback, also known as the Lesser Golden-backed Woodpecker or Lesser Goldenback, is a striking bird commonly observed even within urban locales. It boasts a length of 26-29 cm, characterized by its woodpecker silhouette and resplendent golden yellow wing coverts. The species is distinguished by its black rump, contrasting with the red rump of the Greater Flameback, and its underparts are white with dark chevron patterns. A black throat with delicate white markings sets it apart from other golden-backed woodpeckers in its range.

Identification Tips

Males of the species can be identified by their red crown and crest, while females feature a black forecrown speckled with white and red only on the rear crest. Juveniles resemble females but are more subdued in coloration. The Black-rumped Flameback is unique among golden-backed woodpeckers, presenting both a black throat and a black rump. Observations of leucistic individuals and other morphological variations have been recorded.

Habitat

This woodpecker favors open forests and cultivated areas, often venturing into urban settings with ample tree cover. It is typically found at elevations up to 1200 meters in the Indian subcontinent, including Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.

Distribution

The Black-rumped Flameback is widely distributed across the Indian subcontinent, from the plains to the foothills of the Himalayas, extending eastward to the western Assam valley and Meghalaya, and southward to Sri Lanka.

Behaviour

Often seen in pairs or small groups, the Black-rumped Flameback may join mixed-species foraging flocks. It forages from the ground to the treetops, feeding on insects, particularly beetle larvae, beneath the bark, visiting termite mounds, and occasionally indulging in nectar. Its movements are characterized by a hopping motion, which can serve as a camouflage against predators. Remarkably adaptable, it utilizes artificial structures and may even consume fallen fruits or food scraps.

Song & Calls

The species is known for its distinctive rattling-whinnying call and exhibits an undulating flight pattern.

Breeding

Breeding season varies with climate, typically occurring between February and July, during which drumming is frequent. Nesting involves excavation of a hole with a horizontal entrance leading to a cavity, sometimes taking over existing nests of other birds. Clutches usually consist of three glossy white, elongate eggs, which hatch after about 11 days, with fledglings leaving the nest around 20 days later.

Similar Species

The Greater Flameback is similar but can be differentiated by its red rump and the presence of dark moustachial stripes, which the Black-rumped Flameback lacks.

Diet and Feeding

The Black-rumped Flameback's diet consists mainly of insects, particularly beetle larvae, extracted from under tree bark. It also feeds at termite mounds and occasionally consumes nectar.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Black-rumped Flameback as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats to its survival at present.