Woodpecker Information

Woodpeckers are small to large birds, with sharp bill, round head, broad wings and a stiff tail. Most woodpecker species live in forests or woodland habitats. Their feet have four clawed toes, two pointing forward and two pointing backward. Their stiff tails are used to brace themselves against tree trunks. Woodpeckers also have a very long tongue which can reach deep into insect tunnels. There are more than 200 species of woodpeckers in the world. The smallest woodpecker is the bar-breasted piculet (Picumnus aurifrons) from South America. The imperial woodpecker (Campephilus imperialis) is the largest woodpecker species. Unfortunately this species may be extinct today. Woodpeckers can produce damage especially to wood houses. Some of them can be frightened away with persistent loud noises.