The Rufous Woodpecker is an unusual and distinctive woodpecker known for its soft, rufous-brown plumage and lack of a bold crest. Unlike many woodpeckers, it often gleans insects from leaves and twigs.
Where to spot
Widespread across Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, the Malay Peninsula, and parts of Indonesia, inhabiting various forest types, bamboo groves, and plantations.
How to spot
Look for its overall rufous-brown coloration, which is atypical for a woodpecker. Unlike most woodpeckers, it often forages in a creeping manner on branches and vines, rather than primarily drumming on trunks. Listen for its soft, chattering calls.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, observable year-round. It can be particularly noticeable when visiting ant nests or foraging in the mid-canopy.
Where to spot
Widespread across Southeast Asia, including the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, the Malay Peninsula, and parts of Indonesia, inhabiting various forest types, bamboo groves, and plantations.
How to spot
Look for its overall rufous-brown coloration, which is atypical for a woodpecker. Unlike most woodpeckers, it often forages in a creeping manner on branches and vines, rather than primarily drumming on trunks. Listen for its soft, chattering calls.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, observable year-round. It can be particularly noticeable when visiting ant nests or foraging in the mid-canopy.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
This species frequently associates with ants, particularly arboreal ant nests, where it feeds on ants and their larvae, often without actively drumming on wood.
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