The Brown-backed Woodpecker is a medium-sized species of Southern Africa, characterized by its dull brown upperparts, pale underparts with subtle streaking, and a red cap in males. It is often found in drier woodlands.
Where to spot
Inhabits dry woodlands, savannas, and acacia scrub across parts of Southern Africa, including Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
How to spot
Look for its plain brown back and paler, streaked underparts as it forages on tree trunks and larger branches. Listen for its distinct calls and drumming, which can be quite loud for its size.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its arid and semi-arid habitat. Active during daylight hours, often more visible in the cooler mornings.
Where to spot
Inhabits dry woodlands, savannas, and acacia scrub across parts of Southern Africa, including Angola, Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
How to spot
Look for its plain brown back and paler, streaked underparts as it forages on tree trunks and larger branches. Listen for its distinct calls and drumming, which can be quite loud for its size.
When to spot
Resident year-round in its arid and semi-arid habitat. Active during daylight hours, often more visible in the cooler mornings.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This woodpecker has a relatively long and slender bill, which it uses to probe deeply into wood for beetle larvae and other insects, often on dead trees and branches.
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