Great Slaty Woodpecker

Mulleripicus pulverulentus

Family: Woodpeckers · Status: Very rare visitor · Size: 45–51 cm · Conservation: Vulnerable

Range

Occurs from the northern Indian subcontinent to southwestern China, Indochina, the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Palawan, and the Greater Sundas.

Identification

Unmistakable from its large size, longish neck, dark slaty-grey overall plumage with whitish spots on nape and neck, yellowish-white bill and golden-buff throat. Male has red submoustachial stripe, absent in females.

Habitat

Broadleaved forest and mangroves. Recorded at Bukit Timah Nature Reserve and Central Catchment Forest in May 2018.

Behaviour

Usually frequents the canopy in small parties. Very noisy and conspicuous.