It is among the largest of the Asiatic woodpeckers and nests in large dead trees, often beside rivers.

[9] Although shy, they can nest close to well-used tracks and human disturbed areas.

[14] This large black woodpecker is usually seen singly or as a pair, which may sometimes be accompanied by a third bird.

They have a dipping in which the loud single note, a laugh-like chiank call, is produced.

The nest is built in a large dead tree, often in open forest.

In Bastar in central India, the squabs are sought after by tribals, resulting in the rarity of these birds there.