Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers have declined significantly since the 1980s, with a 41% contraction of its breeding season range from 1968–72 to 2008–11. They are on the UK’s Red List of Birds of Conservation Concern and a Priority Conservation Species for the RSPB. The declines appear to be linked to chicks not surviving to adulthood, specifically chicks not having enough food.
Our conservation work is now focused on identifying how to ensure that Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers have enough food to successfully raise their chicks. Whether that’s down to mature trees, wetter habitat conditions in woodlands or another factor, our work will continue to pinpoint how conservation work can be targeted to help them.
Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers prefer woodland with plenty of deadwood, especially in parts of England and Wales. They tend to stay high in the tree canopy, which makes them hard to spot, so look up at the upper branches, especially early in the day, and listen carefully for drumming and calls.
There aren’t many Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers in the UK and they spend much of their time high in the trees, so they can be very tricky to find. Even in good areas, you may need several visits and a little luck.
Listen for a short, fast burst of drumming and soft, quiet calls. The drumming is lighter and quicker than a Great Spotted Woodpecker’s. Still, calm mornings give you a better chance to hear them.
Head outside and discover fascinating birds each month. Read on for top ID tips, what to listen for, and where to see them.
