How to identify the Great Spotted Woodpecker

To correctly identify the Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

20-24 cm

Wingspan

34-39 cm

Weight

70-90 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Predominantly black and white. Black upperparts with large white oval patches on the shoulders. White underparts, often with a buffy wash on the flanks. A prominent red vent (undertail coverts). Black crown and nape, with white cheeks and a black moustachial stripe extending from the base of the bill to the nape.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Strong, chisel-shaped, dark grey to black bill, adapted for drilling into wood.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark red to reddish-brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to blackish-grey.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Large white shoulder patches, red vent, and a distinctive black moustachial stripe. The red patch on the nape (males) or crown (juveniles) is a key identifier.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles of both sexes have a red crown (forehead to nape), which is often brighter and more extensive than the adult male's nape patch. Their plumage can appear duller overall, and the white underparts may have a more streaky or dirty appearance.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage remains consistent throughout the year.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males have a prominent red patch on the nape (back of the head). Females lack this red nape patch, having an entirely black crown and nape.

Key field marks

• Plumage Pattern. Look for the striking black and white pattern, especially the large white oval patches on the shoulders and the bright red undertail coverts (vent).
• Head Markings. Note the black crown and nape, white cheeks, and the distinctive black moustachial stripe that extends from the bill to the nape. Males have an additional red patch on the nape; juveniles have a red crown.
• Vocalizations. Listen for the sharp 'kik' call and, more importantly, its rapid, resonant drumming, which is a key identification feature, especially in spring.
• Behavior. Observe its foraging behavior: climbing tree trunks, probing bark, and hammering at wood. Its undulating flight pattern is also characteristic.
• Size. It's a medium-sized woodpecker, larger than a sparrow but smaller than a crow, which helps distinguish it from Lesser Spotted and Green Woodpeckers respectively.

Explore the Great Spotted Woodpecker