Middle Spotted Woodpecker

1 day ago

Spotted

A medium-sized woodpecker with a distinct red cap extending to the nape (in both sexes), a pale belly with some streaking, and no black moustache stripe. It prefers mature broadleaf woodlands.

Where to spot

Found in central and eastern Europe and parts of Western Asia. Prefers mature deciduous forests, particularly those with old oak, hornbeam, or elm trees, often with dead wood.

How to spot

Focus on mature broadleaf woodlands. Look for it foraging higher up in the tree canopy than other woodpeckers, often on the smaller branches or outer bark, rather than the main trunk. Listen for its characteristic calls.

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in its resident range. Activity, including breeding behavior and calls, is higher in spring and early summer.

Where to spot

Found in central and eastern Europe and parts of Western Asia. Prefers mature deciduous forests, particularly those with old oak, hornbeam, or elm trees, often with dead wood.

How to spot

When to spot

Can be observed year-round in its resident range. Activity, including breeding behavior and calls, is higher in spring and early summer.

Credits: Frank.Vassen

Credits: Arend Vermazeren

Credits: Frank.Vassen

Unlike many woodpeckers, the Middle Spotted Woodpecker rarely drums and instead relies on its calls for communication, which include a soft 'kwick kwick' and a chattering sound.

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