Black-rumped Flameback look-alikes
Dinopium benghalense
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Black-rumped Flameback. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Greater Flameback
Chrysocolaptes guttacristatus
Key differences
The Greater Flameback is larger (31-34 cm) and has a more prominent, shaggy crest. Its rump is also golden-yellow to red, but it typically has a more extensive red back and often a more heavily barred underside. The facial pattern can be similar, but the overall size and crest shape are key differentiators. The Greater Flameback also has a longer, more robust bill.
Common Flameback (formerly part of Black-rumped Flameback complex)
Dinopium javanense
Key differences
The Common Flameback is found further east in Southeast Asia. While very similar in appearance, it generally has a less extensive black rump (often more yellow-gold) and subtle differences in facial markings and calls. Taxonomic revisions have separated these species, but in areas of potential overlap (e.g., parts of Bangladesh), careful observation of rump color and facial patterns is needed.
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