Yungipicus canicapillus (Blyth, 1845)

Scientific Nomenclature

The grey-capped pygmy woodpecker, scientifically named Yungipicus canicapillus, is an Asian bird species that belongs to the woodpecker family Picidae. One recognized subspecies is Yungipicus canicapillus doerriesi, which is primarily found in Manchuria, eastern Siberia, and Korea.

Taxonomic Classification

Some taxonomic authorities still classify this species in the genera Dendrocopos or Picoides instead of Yungipicus.

General Morphology

This is a small, dark woodpecker with dark irides. Its upperparts are barred in black and white, and it typically has unbarred central tail feathers.

Underside Appearance

Its dark buff underside features prominent dark streaking.

Head Markings

It has a dark grey crown—males additionally have a red nape—along with strong black eyestripes and thin dark malar stripes that contrast with its broad white supercilia and cheeks.

Species Range

The species' overall range stretches from the Himalayas and Manchuria to Southeast Asia.

Habitat Types

Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest, subtropical or tropical mangrove forest, and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.