Great Spotted Woodpecker

Dendrocopus major 

About blackbird-sized and striking black-and-white.

It has a very distinctive bouncing flight and spends most of its time clinging to tree trunks and branches, often trying to hide on the side away from the observer. Its presence is often announced by its loud call or by its distinctive spring ‘drumming’ display. The male has a distinctive red patch on the back of the head and young birds have a red crown.

How to be responsible when watching wildlife >

discover more about Great Spotted Woodpecker

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen all year round. Although are heard during the breeding season, early in the spring.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Great Spotted Woodpeckers occupy woodlands. 

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Drumming is a sign of marking territory, not just for finding food.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Kestrel Peregrine Falcon

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen all year round. Although are heard during the breeding season, early in the spring.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Great Spotted Woodpeckers occupy woodlands. 

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Drumming is a sign of marking territory, not just for finding food.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Kestrel Peregrine Falcon

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

They can be seen all year round. Although are heard during the breeding season, early in the spring.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Great Spotted Woodpeckers occupy woodlands. 

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Drumming is a sign of marking territory, not just for finding food.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Kestrel Peregrine Falcon