RSPB Spotlight Woodpeckers

Author: Gorman, Gerard

Ecological science, the Biosphere

Published on 4 October 2018 by Bloomsbury Publishing PLC (Bloomsbury Wildlife) in the United Kingdom as part of 'the RSPB' series.

Paperback | 128 pages, 200 colour photos
208 x 150 x 9 | 276g

Woodpeckers are fascinating birds, filling our forests with their unmistakable drumming, and capturing our imaginations with their incredible ability to drill holes in trees and their bright, colourful plumage.

Three species of woodpecker are resident in the UK: the Green Woodpecker, often seen on lawns and in fields; the Great Spotted Woodpecker, a frequent visitor at garden bird-feeders; and the tiny Lesser Spotted Woodpecker, sadly now in decline. The Wryneck – which twists its neck ‘like a snake’ when threatened – also passes through the UK on its yearly migration and has captivated people throughout the ages.

Gerard Gorman provides a close-up look at the lives of these birds, from their anatomy, diet and nesting habits to their iconic drumming behaviour. He also explores the relationship that humans have enjoyed with woodpeckers for centuries, in folklore, myth and conservation, and gives tips on how to observe these wonderful birds in the wild.

The Spotlight series introduces readers to the lives and behaviour of our favourite animals with eye-catching colour photographs and informative expert text.