GREAT SPOTTED WOODPECKER

It is a striking bird with its black and white plumage, a prominent oval-shaped white patch on each wing and a red patch under the tail.  With a bouncing flight, it spends much of its time clinging to tree trunks and branches. Its presence can often be heard by the distinctive drumming as it pecks the tree to announce its presence. A nesting hole is bored in soft or decaying wood. It feeds on insects, seeds and nuts. There are widespread sightings throughout Arran but in particular they can be heard drumming around Brodick Counrty Park and in Merkland Wood.

5.5cm x 10.5cm