Data Zone
Justification of Red List category
This species is thought to be declining moderately rapidly because of ongoing forest loss throughout its range. Its population may also be small, however it occurs in multiple subpopulations. It is therefore listed as Near Threatened.
Population justification
There is no population density or estimate for this species. The population was previously estimated to number 250-999 mature individuals, however inferred relative densities from eBird (2021) data and the area of suitable habitat in its range (c.7,500 km2; Global Forest Watch [2021] using data from Hansen et al. [2013] and methods disclosed therein) do not support such a low number. eBird (2021) data suggest that this species occurs in suitable habitat at a density not dissimilar to other flamebacks; C. stricklandi of Sri Lanka, with which the present species was formerly considered conspecific and has similar habitat requirements, occurs at densities of c.5 individuals/km2 (Wijesundaral & Wijesundaral 2014). Assuming that only 20-30% of the range is occupied (supported by the statement that it is uncommon in Allen [2020]), the population probably numbers 7,500-11,250 birds (equivalent to approximately 5,000-7,500 mature individuals).
Trend justification
Remote sensing data (Global Forest Watch [2021] using data from Hansen et al. [2013] and methods disclosed therein) indicate that over the past three generations (14.7 years; Bird et al. 2020) forest loss in this species' range has been equivalent to 10-14%, however this increased to an equivalent rate of c.20% over three generations between 2015 and 2020. As a forest dependent species, C. erythrocephalus is suspected to decline at a rate at least equal to that of forest loss and may additionally be impacted by fragmentation and selective logging of larger trees needed for nesting. With an increasing human population (PSA 2015) and few areas of lowland forest lying in protected areas, this rate is not expected to slow or cease in the future. It is therefore suspected to decline at a rate of 20-29% over the next three generations.
Chrysocolaptes erythrocephalus is found on Balabac, Palawan and the Calamian group in the Philippines (Dickinson et al. 1991).
This species occurs in forests, including mature secondary and clearings where in proximity to forest (Allen 2020); it occurs to c.1,100 m (Kennedy et al. 2000, eBird 2021). Breeding activity has been recorded between Jan-May (Kennedy et al. 2000).
Lowland forest loss, degradation and fragmentation have been extensive and are ongoing on Palawan (Global Forest Watch [2021], using data from Hansen et al. [2013] and methods disclosed therein) and logging and mining concessions have been granted for much remaining forest tracts on the island.
Conservation and research actions underway
No targeted actions are known but the species occurs in several protected areas and montane forests not currently affected by forest loss.
Conservation and research actions proposed
Conduct surveys in potentially suitable habitat in order to calculate density estimates, and calculate remaining extent of suitable habitat to refine the population estimate. Encourage careful reforestation activities around remaining forests and law enforcement to stop small-scale yet rampant illegal logging. Protect areas of suitable lowland habitat.
c. 28-34cm. Striking medium sized woodpecker with a golden-yellow back and bright red head with a dark ear covert spot. The female has a yellow-and-olive flecked crown while in the male this is completely red. Similar spp. All other Chrysocolaptes in the Philippines have a red back. Dinopium everetti has a short, dark bill, no red on throat, white supercilium, dark eyestripe and white moustacial.
Text account compilers
Berryman, A., Martin, R.
Contributors
Allen, D., Butchart, S., Mahood, S., Sarenas, I. & Symes, A.
Recommended citation
BirdLife International (2024) Species factsheet: Red-headed Flameback Chrysocolaptes erythrocephalus. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/factsheet/red-headed-flameback-chrysocolaptes-erythrocephalus on 22/12/2024.
Recommended citation for factsheets for more than one species: BirdLife International (2024) IUCN Red List for birds. Downloaded from
https://datazone.birdlife.org/species/search on 22/12/2024.