Picus chlorolophus Vieillot, 1818

Species Nomenclature & Size

The lesser yellownape (Picus chlorolophus Vieillot, 1818) is a largish woodpecker that reaches 27 cm in length, and has the typical shape of a woodpecker.

Upperpart Coloration

Its upperparts are green, aside from a bright yellow tufted nape.

Underpart Coloration

Its neck and breast are green, while its belly is whitish and finely barred with green.

Rump & Tail Coloration

Its rump and tail are blackish.

Adult Male Head Markings

Adult male lesser yellownapes have a green head and white throat, with red markings above the eye and above the nape, plus red moustachial stripes.

Adult Female Head Markings

Females only have a red patch above the ear coverts.

Juvenile Plumage

Young birds look similar to females, but their coloration is duller.

Subspecies Variation

The subspecies found in peninsular India has a greyer head.

Habitat & Reproduction

This is a jungle-dwelling species that nests in tree cavities, and lays two to four white eggs.

Woodpecker Morphological Adaptations

Like other woodpecking birds, this species has a straight, pointed bill, a stiff tail that provides support against tree trunks, and zygodactyl, or "yoked", feet: two toes point forward, and two point backward.

Feeding Adaptation

Its long tongue can be darted forward to capture insects.