Grey-headed Woodpecker
NameGrey-headed Woodpecker
Common NameGrey-headed Woodpecker
Scientific NamePicus canus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)39
Length (cm)26.5
Weight (g)130
Plumage DetailsMales have a grey head with a prominent red crown patch and a black moustachial stripe extending from the beak. The back and wings are olive-green, and the underparts are paler green-grey. Females resemble males but lack the red crown.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its melancholic, fluting call, often described as a descending series of whistles, 'klyu-klyu-klyu-klyu'. It also has a sharp 'kek' alarm call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of temperate Europe and Asia, from France eastwards to Japan, inhabiting deciduous and mixed forests, parks, and orchards.
Identifying Featuresgrey head, red crown (male), olive-green body, black moustachial stripe, fluting call
Description
The Grey-headed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker characterized by its grey head, olive-green body, and a distinctive red crown in males. It typically forages on tree trunks and branches, often specializing in feeding on ants.
