Bird Guide

Abyssinian Woodpecker

Dendropicos abyssinicus

Least ConcernEndemicInvertebratesWoodlandCavity nestSmall · 24 g

About the Abyssinian Woodpecker

The Abyssinian woodpecker, also known as the golden-backed woodpecker or the golden-mantled woodpecker, is a species of bird in the woodpecker family, Picidae. It is native to Africa, where it occurs in Eritrea and Ethiopia. It appears to be a close relative of the cardinal woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

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The Abyssinian woodpecker is a very small woodpecker with a relatively long and broad bill. It has a golden yellow back and mantle with a bright red rump and barred wings and barred tail, the underparts are pale and heavily streaked with black. The head is striped and the male is distinguished by having a red nape and crown. The brown stripe through the eye and the golden mantle separate this species from the related Cardinal Woodpecker. It measured 16 cm (6.3 in) in length and weighs 23–26 g (0.81–0.92 oz).

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where the Abyssinian Woodpecker lives

Regular range

When to see the Abyssinian Woodpecker

Peak activity in December · a winter visitor species across most of its range

Easily confused with

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