The greater spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) - here the male, identified by the red patch on the back of its head - is a special bird. He can't sing, but he can call and he can tap. He can't build a nice nest, but he can dig out a good hollow in a tree.
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The greater spotted woodpecker has begun to carve out a hole here. The location seems suitable.
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In order to be able to produce work like this hollow (shown in cross-section), the greater spotted woodpecker is specially equipped. A thick bone connection between beak and skull helps to dampen the vibrations caused by hammering. In addition, the brain is surrounded by liquid, which also absorbs some of the shock.
(Frank Hecker)
Frank Hecker
Every year the greater spotted woodpecker builds at least one new nesting hole, in which the young are raised.
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The bird keeps on building tree holes for himself - and for other species of birds.
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A young greater spotted woodpecker retains the red cap on his head until August, when he loses his feathers for the first time.
(Rolf Amiet)
Rolf Amiet
Many other types of birds benefit from the woodpecker's work. Here, a nuthatch (Sitta europaea).
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Abandoned woodpecker holes may also be inhabited by bats like this water bat (Myotis daubentoni).
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...or by insects like hornets (Vespa crabro).
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The dormouse (Glis glis) may also benefit from the woodpecker's work.
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The great spotted woodpecker (Dentocopros major) is the most common woodpecker in Switzerland. The secret to its success: its adaptability. The bird feels at home almost anywhere – maybe even in your garden.
In general you’ll hear a spotted woodpecker before you see it. The bird prefers to knock and drum on rotting wood. Its pounding lasts around two seconds and consists of between 10 and 16 hits. The woodpecker’s call is easy to recognise: it makes a loud “kick” or “kix” when it senses danger.
The male spotted woodpecker is the carpenter of the bird species. He makes a nesting hole before attracting the female with his hammering. His preferred building material is rotting wood, such as dead branches. His wedge-shaped beak, which resembles a chisel, allows him to hit the wood with strong blows.
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