Lesser Spotted Woodpecker vs Japanese Woodpecker

In short

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is much smaller and more delicate than the Japanese Woodpecker, with a distinctive barred back and white underparts. The Japanese Woodpecker is larger, with a greenish back and a red crown in males, making it easier to distinguish in the field.

Identification tips

1. Size: The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is much smaller. 2. Back Color: Look for the barred back of the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker versus the greenish back of the Japanese Woodpecker. 3. Crown: Male Japanese Woodpeckers have a red crown, which is absent in Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers. 4. Habitat: Consider the habitat; Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers are more common in deciduous woodlands.

Size

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is significantly smaller and more delicate than the Japanese Woodpecker.

Plumage

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker has a barred black and white back and white underparts, while the Japanese Woodpecker has a greenish back and a red crown in males.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical woodpecker behavior, but the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is more likely to be seen foraging on smaller branches and twigs.

Habitat

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is often found in deciduous woodlands, while the Japanese Woodpecker prefers mixed forests, often with a higher presence of conifers.

Voice

The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker has a high-pitched, rapid drumming and a sharp 'kee-kee' call, while the Japanese Woodpecker's calls are more varied and include a loud, ringing 'kyo-kyo'.