Grey-headed woodpecker

The southern woodpecker is a sedentary species, which means it spends its entire life in the same area. It is a solitary bird, but can be seen in pairs when nesting. The nest is dug in the trunks of old trees, usually high up. The female lays 5-7 eggs, which are hatched by both parents. The chicks hatch after about 17 days and are fed by the parents for several weeks.

Picus canus

Description and how to observe Grey-headed woodpecker:

The Grey-headed woodpecker is a medium-sized bird, about 27-30 cm long. Its plumage is predominantly yellowish-green on the back with grey underparts. The male can be distinguished by a red patch on the forehead, while the female does not. To observe this species, it is recommended to visit the wooded areas of the Danube Delta, especially near wetlands. Listen carefully to the distinctive sounds they make as they knock on trees.

What it feeds on Grey-headed woodpecker:

The main food of the Grey-headed woodpecker is insects and their larvae, which it finds inside trees. It also feeds on seeds and fruit. To find food, the woodpecker uses its powerful beak to peck into the bark of trees and extract hidden insects.

Threats:

The main threats to the Grey-headed woodpecker are related to habitat destruction, particularly through deforestation and uncontrolled logging. The use of pesticides in agriculture can also affect food availability for these birds.

Ecological role:

The Grey-headed woodpecker plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping to maintain healthy forests. By pecking, they create cavities in trees, which are then used as nesting sites by other species of birds and small mammals.

More information about Picus canus:

The Grey-headed woodpecker is a legally protected species.
To protect this species, it is important to conserve mature forests and limit the use of pesticides.
By observing and photographing the southern woodpecker, we can contribute to a better understanding of the biology and ecology of this species.