Birds and wildlife

Green Woodpecker

Picus viridis`Group: WoodpeckersUK Conservation status:Green

How to identify

The Green Woodpecker is the largest of the three woodpeckers that breed in Britain. It has a heavy-looking body, short tail and a strong, long bill. It's green on its upperparts with a paler belly, bright yellow rump and red on the top of its head. The black 'moustache' has a red centre in males. They have a bouncing flight and a loud, laughing call.

Call

Green Woodpecker

GROSSELET Olivier / xeno-canto

Key features to look out for

  • The largest of the UK’s woodpeckers
  • Green plumage, with a yellow rump and red patch on head
  • The black ‘moustache’ has a red centre in males
  • Laughing, descending call
  • Bouncing, undulating flight

Conservation status

The Green Woodpecker is on the green list of the Birds of Conservation Concern, meaning it is needing the least help. However, it declined by 33% from 2013 to 2023, according to Breeding Bird Survey data.

Where and when to see them

In woods, parks, grassy areas and sometimes gardens. Found across England, Wales and parts of Scotland, but not in Ireland.

Difficulty rating - Easy-moderate

Familiarise yourself with its laughing call and there will be no mistaking it.

Key

  1. Resident
  2. Passage
  3. Summer
  4. Winter
* This map is intended as a guide. It shows general distribution rather than detailed, localised populations.
  1. Jan
  2. Feb
  3. Mar
  4. Apr
  5. May
  6. Jun
  7. Jul
  8. Aug
  9. Sep
  10. Oct
  11. Nov
  12. Dec

Where best to see them

Green Woodpecker, adult perched on tree guard
Green Woodpecker
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Key facts