Malaysian Birds
Common Flameback
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Size & diagnostic markings:- 30 cm. The Common Flameback is 30 cm long. The distinctive white face with black sub-moustachial stripes. Frequently in pairs with the male having a red crown and crest and the female having black crown and white spotted crest. Since there are 2 Flamebacks in Malaysia, it is important to know these 2 species well, as they are very much alike except for the subtle differences. First by habitats, the Lesser [Common] which is commonly seen with the Greater which is hanging around mangrove forest. Distribution :- Found in lowlands south of the Himalayas in India and along a narrow belt in south China and to the Sundas. As mentioned earlier, this is the most common Woodpecker in Malaysia, confined to parks and rural forest edge. Habitats & preferences:- Repeat - seen in Parks and forest edges and with fair amount of human presence. But there are also a couple of forest parks next to mangrove forest. The 2 species of Flamebacks could be seen at the same vicinity though not at the same instance. I like the name "Flameback" for this bird. Another name that is also commonly used is the "Golden-backed". "Golden-backed" used in reference to the gold colored wings that the bird has. Quite difficult to see, but there is a bright red streak on its back. Most of us are familiar with the bird, there is no other Woodpecker that compete in looks with this common Woodpecker of the lowland forest. More often the bird are seen in pair. For those who are new to this bird, please call it a "Flameback". For the red streak on its back, keep a close watch on a couple pictures below. Common Flameback 1
Common Flameback 2
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Common Flameback . 13
Common Flameback 14
Common Flameback 15
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