Great Spotted Woodpecker

🔍 Overview

A bold and familiar woodpecker in Sussex, frequenting woodlands, parks, and gardens throughout the year.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium (23 cm)

Plumage: Black and white pattern, red under-tail

Distinctive Marks: Adult male has red nape patch

Bill: Strong and chisel-like

Tail: Stiff for bracing

Flight: Undulating

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Widespread in woodlands and suburban garden areas with trees like Cissbury Ring and local parks.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Drumming on tree trunks; sharp “kik” call. Often seen climbing trees head-first.

🍴 Diet

Insects, larvae, seeds; may visit peanut feeders.

📸 Birding Tip

Listen for drumming in spring. Look for quick climbs and flashes of red under-tail.