Middle Spotted Woodpecker
NameMiddle Spotted Woodpecker
Common NameMiddle Spotted Woodpecker
Scientific NameDendrocopos medius
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsThis woodpecker has a bright red cap extending from the forehead to the nape, a pale face with a dark moustachial stripe, and a black back with large white patches on the wings. Its underparts are whitish with streaked flanks and a distinctive pinkish-red vent.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a soft, nasal 'gvek' or 'gick' sound, often repeated. Unlike many woodpeckers, it rarely drums, instead producing a softer, less resonant tapping.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of Europe, from northern Spain and France eastward through central and eastern Europe, extending into parts of southwest Asia.
Identifying FeaturesRed cap covering entire crown (not just nape), No black stripe connecting bill to nape, Streaked flanks, Pinkish-red vent, Black back with large white wing patches
Description
The Middle Spotted Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker typically found in old deciduous forests. It forages primarily on tree branches, often in the canopy, searching for insects and larvae in bark crevices rather than extensively drumming on trunks.
