Yellow-crowned Woodpecker

The Yellow-crowned Woodpecker is a small resident species of dry deciduous woodland across the Indian subcontinent. Its yellow forecrown patch, present in both sexes, is a useful and fairly unique feature among the region's pied woodpeckers.

It is generally found in drier, more open woodland than some of its relatives, often associating with scrubby or thorny vegetation.

• Forecrown feathers show a yellow patch present in both sexes, a distinctive feature for the species
• Males additionally show red on the rear crown, absent in females
• Back and wing feathers show classic black-and-white barring
• Underparts are streaked rather than barred, on a pale ground color
• Tail feathers are black with white markings, stiffened for trunk support

Both sexes show a yellow forecrown patch, but males additionally have red on the rear crown, which females lack. Juveniles show duller, less defined streaking below and a less saturated yellow crown patch. A single molt follows breeding.

• Resident across much of the Indian subcontinent, including India and Sri Lanka
• Favors dry deciduous woodland, scrub, and thorn forest
• Non-migratory

This species forages on trunks, branches, and twigs, taking insects and larvae, and is often found in drier and more open habitat than many related pied woodpeckers. It gives sharp calls and drums in short bursts. Nest cavities are excavated in dead branches or trunks within its dry woodland range.