Green Woodpecker
Green Woodpecker
Picus viridis
The green woodpecker (Picus viridis) is a vibrant bird species native to parts of Europe and western Asia. Known for its distinctive appearance, it features a green upper body, red crown, and pale grey face, with yellowish-green underparts and brown wings adorned with a conspicuous white rump patch. This largest woodpecker species in the British Isles prefers habitats like open woodlands, gardens, and parks. What sets it apart is its unique feeding behavior—it predominantly feeds on ants and their larvae, using its long, sticky tongue to extract them from anthills. Emitting a distinct and resonant "yaffle" call, the green woodpecker plays a role in both ecosystems and cultural landscapes, its laughing call often echoing through the trees during its breeding season from March to July. With its vibrant plumage and characteristic habits, this woodpecker contributes to the tapestry of life in its chosen habitats.