Woodpecker (General) song and calls
Varies by species (e.g., Picus viridis, Dendrocopos major)
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Open the appBirdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Woodpecker (General), especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.
Song
Songs are often simple, repetitive calls or drumming sequences. For example, the Green Woodpecker (Picus viridis) has a distinctive 'yaffle' call, a loud, laughing 'klyu-klyu-klyu-klyu'. The Great Spotted Woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) has a sharp 'kik' call and a rapid, percussive drumming.
Calls
Calls vary widely by species but often include sharp 'chip' or 'kik' notes, alarm calls, and contact calls. Drumming is a key form of communication, used for territorial advertisement and attracting mates.
When they vocalize
Most vocalizations and drumming occur during the breeding season (spring and early summer) for territorial defense and mate attraction. Calls can be heard year-round.
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