Size: 26-29cm

Description: woodpecker species usually seen foraging on tree trunks and branches, often in pairs, sometimes clinging to the undersides of branches. Golden back and wings and bright red head crest stand out, though the female’s red crest covers only the back half of the head; her forehead is black. Otherwise sexes similar. Bill is long and grey-black. Sides of the face are mainly white with a black band from the eye to the ear area. Chin and throat are black with white speckles, fading to a mainly white belly and underparts. Tail is black.

Diet: mainly ants as well as other invertebrates.

Song: doesn’t sing, but makes short “grrrk” sounds as well as high-pitched squeaks when excited. Most often heard drumming in short bursts (lasting around 1 second) before nesting season.

Breeds: March-April in nest holes excavated by both the male and female.