Greater spotted woodpecker with young

The greater spotted woodpecker is a striking and charismatic bird known for its distinctive drumming and bold plumage. Here's an overview of this fascinating species:

• Appearance: The greater spotted woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with black and white plumage. It has a black back with white spots, a white belly, and bold black and white markings on its wings and tail. The male has a red patch on the back of its head, which is absent in females and juveniles.

• Habitat: Greater spotted woodpeckers are adaptable birds found in a variety of woodland habitats, including deciduous and mixed woodlands, parks, gardens, and orchards. They are also known to inhabit urban and suburban areas with mature trees.

• Behaviour: These woodpeckers are skilled climbers and can often be seen hopping up and down tree trunks and branches in search of food. They use their powerful bills to excavate holes in trees in search of insects, larvae, and sap. Their distinctive drumming, which sounds like rapid hammering on a hollow tree trunk, is used to establish territory and attract mates.

• Diet: Greater spotted woodpeckers have a varied diet that includes insects, larvae, spiders, nuts, seeds, and berries. They use their long, sticky tongues to extract insects from crevices in bark and wood.

• Breeding: Breeding season for greater spotted woodpeckers typically begins in spring. They excavate nesting cavities in dead or decaying trees, often reusing old nest sites or abandoned woodpecker holes. The female lays a clutch of eggs, usually numbering between four to six, which she incubates for around two weeks. Both parents share in the feeding and care of the young until they fledge.

• Conservation: Greater spotted woodpeckers are widespread and common throughout much of their range, but they may face threats from habitat loss, particularly the loss of mature trees and woodland habitat. Conservation efforts focus on preserving and restoring suitable habitat, as well as providing nesting opportunities in parks, gardens, and urban areas.

Overall, the greater spotted woodpecker is a captivating bird with its bold markings, distinctive behaviour, and vibrant drumming, adding excitement and vitality to woodland and urban environments alike.