NOW that the leaves have fallen this is a good time to spot Greater Spotted Woodpeckers.
They are noticeable by their short sharp cry, these outbursts are easier to follow and locate whilst they move from tree to tree. The bird is the same size as a blackbird but sits upright. When flying it has in common with other woodpeckers an undulating flight that needs a fresh injection of wing beat to stop the creature plummeting to the ground. Very obviously black and white with a dash of red under the tail it spends more time in trees than on the ground.
The southern Hills are a good place to hear and look out for them.
IAN ROWAT
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