The Rufous-backed Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized species of sub-Saharan Africa, distinctive for its rufous-brown back, pale underparts, and a red crown in males. It is common in open woodlands.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting open woodlands, savannas, acacia scrub, and gallery forests.
How to spot
Look for its distinct rufous-brown back. Listen for its characteristic calls, which are often a series of high-pitched notes, and its drumming. It often mixes with other bird species in foraging flocks.
When to spot
Resident year-round throughout its extensive range. Active during daylight hours, often more conspicuous in the early mornings.
Where to spot
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting open woodlands, savannas, acacia scrub, and gallery forests.
How to spot
Look for its distinct rufous-brown back. Listen for its characteristic calls, which are often a series of high-pitched notes, and its drumming. It often mixes with other bird species in foraging flocks.
When to spot
Resident year-round throughout its extensive range. Active during daylight hours, often more conspicuous in the early mornings.
This species frequently forages at lower levels, often on the trunks and branches of smaller trees and shrubs, making it somewhat easier to observe than woodpeckers that prefer higher canopies.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.