05 • 01 • 2016
Bird of the year – the great spotted woodpecker
The great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) has been chosen as the bird of the year 2016. It is already the 21st time when the Latvian Ornithological Society runs the campaign "Bird of the Year"; its goal this year was to draw public attention to widespread bird species living in Latvia.
"Of the nine species of piciformes that may be found in Latvia, the great spotted woodpecker is the most often seen species; this bird can be heard and seen almost anywhere - in swamps, as well as in dry coniferous forests," says Uģis Bergmanis, LVM senior environmental expert.
The great spotted woodpecker may be recognised by its black-white coat, the red feathers beneath its tail and its grey-white belly. The head is black, the forehead - white, and there are white spots on the sides. Males have a crimson spot on the nape, which is absent in females and juvenile birds. In the latter, the top of the head is crimson between the beak and the centre of the crown instead. The great spotted woodpecker has green - grey legs, grey beak and red eyes. Juvenile birds have brown eyes. The great spotted woodpecker is 23–26 centimetres long, with a 38–44 centimetres wingspan.
"Woodpeckers are the main creators of cavities in the forest. It is interesting that the majority of the woodpecker species nest in their bored-out cavities only once; each year they make a new cavity. And here in the abandoned cavities, right after the woodpecker is gone, cavity-nesters like titmice and flycatchers settle down to make their home. Also the wood pigeon, which is a specially protected species, as well as the owl, are among those who like making their nests in woodpeckers’ cavities," says the expert. Besides, the diligent woodpecker extinguishes forest pests such as aphids, caterpillars, beetles and many others.
"Woodpeckers may be well heard in the spring - during the mating season. At this time of the year they are particularly active - they are making noise with their loud voice, as well as by drumming on tree trunks. One can also hear the small woodpeckers crying impatiently and demanding food," says Uģis Bergmanis.
Since they feed not only on insects, but also on conifer seeds, during the winter season woodpeckers can often be seen in coniferous forests. "Woodpeckers are frequent visitors to bird feeders. An unsalted piece of meat or grain would be a great snack for them. Also titmice and jays, as well as wood thrushes will eagerly join them for such a meal," says the expert, sharing his knowledge and recommendations.
Nine species of piciformes may be found in Latvia: wryneck, grey-headed woodpecker, green woodpecker, black woodpecker, great spotted woodpecker, middle spotted woodpecker, white-backed woodpecker, small woodpecker and three-toed woodpecker.
