Lesser Spotted Woodpecker
NameLesser Spotted Woodpecker
Common NameLesser Spotted Woodpecker
Scientific NameDryobates minor
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsMales have a red crown bordered by black, while females have a white or buffy crown. Both sexes exhibit black upperparts with prominent white barring on the back and wings, and white underparts with some faint streaking on the flanks. The rump is black.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft 'ki-ki-ki' or 'pee-pee-pee' and it produces a rapid, high-pitched drumming sound, often quieter and less resonant than larger woodpeckers.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of Europe and northern Asia, from Great Britain and Scandinavia eastwards to Japan and Korea.
Identifying FeaturesSmallest European woodpecker, Black and white barred back, Red crown (male), Lack of large white shoulder patches, Undulating flight pattern, Prefers foraging on thin branches
Description
The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is the smallest European woodpecker, characterized by its striking black and white plumage and a red crown in males. It is an active forager, often seen climbing and pecking on the thinner branches and twigs of trees, rather than the main trunk.
