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great spotted woodpecker

bird
Also known as: Dendrocopos major

Quick Summary

The great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) is a common bird found in European and Asian forests and gardens. It is characterized by its black back, white shoulder patches, and crimson under-tail coverts. Males also have a crimson patch on their nape.12

Woodpeckers, in general, are known for their ability to excavate tree bark for insects and to chisel nest holes in deadwood. They are found nearly worldwide, with the exception of Australia and New Guinea, and are most numerous in South America and Southeast Asia. Most woodpeckers are resident birds, but some species migrate. They are often solitary or travel in pairs and are known for their loud calls and drumming sounds, especially during the spring when males are holding territories.2

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