Red-backed Flameback bird perched on a tree branch in Sri Lanka

Red-backed Flameback: A Beautiful Spark of Color in the Forest

Dinopium psarodes

The Red-backed Flameback, also known as the Sri Lanka Red-backed Woodpecker, is a striking bird native to the island nation. Its vibrant red back and black-and-white patterned head make it easily recognizable. This medium-sized woodpecker is a common sight in various habitats, from forests to gardens. Its loud, drumming call and characteristic pecking on tree trunks are a familiar sound in the Sri Lankan landscape.
  • The Red-backed Flameback is a subspecies of the Greater Flameback, specifically found in Sri Lanka.
  • Male birds have a red crest, while females have a black crest with white spots, making it easy to distinguish between sexes.
  • They have a long, chisel-like beak and a sticky, barbed tongue that can extend far to extract insects from wood.
  • Their strong feet with two toes pointing forward and two backward provide excellent grip for climbing trees.