Orange-backed woodpecker
Chrysocolaptes validus·Picidae
The orange-backed woodpecker is a forest-dwelling bird belonging to the woodpecker family, Picidae. It is primarily found in the canopy of forests across several Southeast Asian regions, including southern Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, Sumatra, and Java.
Key Facts
- ›Belongs to the woodpecker family, Picidae.
- ›Inhabits forest canopies.
- ›Found in southern Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, Sumatra, and Java.
- ›Two recognized subspecies: C. V. xanthopygius and C. V. validus.
- ›Previously placed in its own genus, Reinwardtipicus.
Orange-Backed Woodpecker
Southeast Asia
Forests, Canopy
About Orange-backed woodpecker
The orange-backed woodpecker (Chrysocolaptes validus) is a species of bird in the woodpecker family, Picidae. This avian species is a forest specialist, predominantly inhabiting the canopy layer of its environment. Its geographic distribution spans across several regions in Southeast Asia, including southern Thailand, the Malayan Peninsula, Borneo (Sarawak and Sabah), Brunei, Sumatra, and Java.
Taxonomy and Classification
The species was first described and illustrated in 1825 by the Dutch zoologist Coenraad Jacob Temminck, who assigned it the binomial name Pic validus based on specimens collected from the Indonesian island of Java. Historically, the orange-backed woodpecker was classified in its own genus, Reinwardtipicus. However, current taxonomic understanding places it within the genus Chrysocolaptes, which was established in 1843 by English zoologist Edward Blyth and now encompasses ten species. Two subspecies are recognized: C. v. xanthopygius, found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, and C. v. validus, endemic to Java.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the scientific name of the orange-backed woodpecker?
The scientific name of the orange-backed woodpecker is Chrysocolaptes validus. It was initially described by Coenraad Jacob Temminck in 1825 under the binomial name Pic validus.
Where is the orange-backed woodpecker found?
The orange-backed woodpecker is found in southern Thailand, Malaya, Sarawak and Sabah in Malaysia, Brunei, Sumatra, and Java. It is a specialist of forest environments.
What genus does the orange-backed woodpecker belong to?
The orange-backed woodpecker is now placed in the genus Chrysocolaptes, which was introduced in 1843 by Edward Blyth. Previously, it was classified in its own genus, Reinwardtipicus.
Are there different subspecies of the orange-backed woodpecker?
Yes, there are two recognized subspecies. Chrysocolaptes validus xanthopygius is found in the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo, while Chrysocolaptes validus validus is found on Java.
Related Woodpecker species
Chestnut woodpecker
The chestnut woodpecker is a bird species found across much of mainland South America and Trinidad. It is characterized by its chestnut plumage, a bright red malar area in males, and a distinctive call. This species primarily inhabits forests and secondary growth areas, where it forages for ants and termites.
Crimson-backed flameback
The Crimson-backed flameback is a bird species in the woodpecker family, endemic to Sri Lanka. It is distinguished by its crimson upper body plumage, a yellow beak, and less prominent facial stripes compared to its relatives. This species inhabits forests and woodlands within its native range.
Iberian green woodpecker
The Iberian green woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker found exclusively on the Iberian Peninsula. It is distinguished from its close relatives by having minimal black markings on its head and a dusky ring around its eyes, rather than a black one. Its vocalizations are described as sibilant or hiss-like.