Great Spotted Woodpecker vs Black Woodpecker

In short

The Great Spotted Woodpecker and the Black Woodpecker are both striking, but differ notably in size and coloration. The Black Woodpecker is significantly larger and entirely black with a red crown, while the Great Spotted Woodpecker is smaller, with a black and white pattern and red under the tail.

Identification tips

1. Size: Look for the larger size of the Black Woodpecker. 2. Coloration: Note the all-black plumage of the Black Woodpecker versus the patterned black and white of the Great Spotted Woodpecker. 3. Red Markings: Check the red crown or nape of the Black Woodpecker and the red under the tail of the Great Spotted Woodpecker. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; mature forests may indicate Black Woodpecker presence. 5. Drumming and Calls: Listen for the louder drumming and distinct calls.

Size

The Black Woodpecker is much larger, about the size of a crow, whereas the Great Spotted Woodpecker is more similar in size to a thrush.

Plumage

The Black Woodpecker is uniformly black with a red crown (males) or nape (females), while the Great Spotted Woodpecker has a black and white pattern with a distinctive red patch under the tail and a red nape in males.

Behaviour

Both species are often seen drumming on trees, but the Black Woodpecker's drumming is louder and more resonant due to its larger size.

Habitat

The Great Spotted Woodpecker is more adaptable, found in a variety of wooded habitats, while the Black Woodpecker prefers mature forests with large trees.

Voice

The Black Woodpecker has a loud, ringing call, while the Great Spotted Woodpecker's call is a sharp 'kik' or 'kek'.