Lesser spotted woodpecker

The lesser spotted woodpecker, scientifically known as Dryobates minor, is the smallest woodpecker species found in Europe and is a member of the Picidae family. It was formerly classified under the genus Dendrocopos but is now placed in the resurrected genus Dryobates. The species' name, minor, is Latin for "smaller," reflecting its diminutive size.

Distribution and Habitat

This species has a wide range across the Palearctic region, encompassing parts of Europe, Asia, and North Africa. It prefers habitats with tall trees, such as woodlands and parks, where it can often be found foraging in the upper canopy. Its habit of spending most of its time in the treetops contributes to it being frequently overlooked.

Physical Characteristics

Adult lesser spotted woodpeckers typically measure between 14 to 16.5 cm (5.5 to 6.5 inches) in length, with a wingspan of 24 to 29 cm (9.4 to 11.4 inches) and a weight of 17 to 25 grams (0.60 to 0.88 oz). A key identifying feature is the broad barring on its wings and narrower bars across its lower back. Males are distinguished by a crimson crown, while females possess a white crown. Both sexes have brown foreheads and black stripes extending from the bill base to the neck, as well as across the nape and upper back. The underparts are white with streaks on the flanks, and the bill and legs are slate-grey.

Ecology and Behavior

Its habits are similar to those of the great spotted woodpecker. The lesser spotted woodpecker's call is a repeated "keek," which is loud for its size, and it produces a vibrating rattle. Its diet primarily consists of insects, with a focus on wood-boring larvae, which it extracts by chipping away at rotten wood. During the breeding season, surface-living insects from foliage and bark become a more significant part of its diet, and nestlings are mainly fed these types of insects, such as aphids and larval insects.

Nesting and Reproduction

The lesser spotted woodpecker is a cavity nester, excavating its own holes in trees. These nesting cavities are usually situated at considerable heights, ranging from 10 to 20 meters (33 to 66 feet) above the ground, and the entrance hole is smaller than that of the great spotted woodpecker. The nesting cavity itself can be up to 30 cm (12 inches) or more below the entrance. In the latter half of May, females lay five to eight highly polished white eggs on a bed of wood dust and chips. Typically, only a single brood is raised per year, and both parents participate in incubation. Occasionally, old or natural tree hollows are used or enlarged for nesting.

Population Trends and Conservation

Populations of lesser spotted woodpeckers are largely resident, though they can exhibit some nomadic tendencies. Annual fluctuations in population numbers are common, with winter temperatures potentially affecting survival through heat loss and spring weather indirectly impacting breeding success by influencing food availability. In the United Kingdom, the population has seen a significant decline, reportedly halving between 2009 and 2017. This decline has been attributed to modern land management practices that involve the rapid removal of dead trees from parks and woodlands, thereby removing preferred nesting habitats. There are 13 recognized subspecies distributed across its extensive range.