Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker

2 days ago

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The Eurasian Three-toed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker of coniferous forests, distinguished by having only three toes instead of the usual four. It has black and white barred plumage, a black cap, and a yellow forehead in males.

Where to spot

Inhabits boreal and montane coniferous forests across northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe through Siberia to Northeast Asia.

How to spot

Look for it foraging on dead or dying conifers, often stripping bark to find beetle larvae. Listen for its soft, rather infrequent drumming and high-pitched 'chick' calls. Its three-toed foot is hard to see, so focus on habitat and foraging behavior.

When to spot

Resident year-round in its coniferous habitat. Active during daylight hours. Best observed in winter when snow cover can make them more conspicuous against tree trunks.

Where to spot

Inhabits boreal and montane coniferous forests across northern Eurasia, from Scandinavia and Eastern Europe through Siberia to Northeast Asia.

How to spot

When to spot

Resident year-round in its coniferous habitat. Active during daylight hours. Best observed in winter when snow cover can make them more conspicuous against tree trunks.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The unique three-toed foot structure is an adaptation for clinging more securely to soft bark, particularly on dead or decaying conifers, where it searches for wood-boring insects.

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