Middle Spotted Woodpecker vs Lesser Spotted Woodpecker

In short

The Middle Spotted Woodpecker and the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker can be distinguished primarily by size and head markings. The Middle Spotted Woodpecker is larger with a distinctive red crown, while the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker is smaller with a more subtle red patch on the head of males only.

Identification tips

• Size: Note that the Middle Spotted Woodpecker is visibly larger.
• Crown Color: Look for the extensive red crown in Middle Spotted Woodpeckers, present in both sexes, compared to the smaller red patch in male Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers.
• Cheek Stripe: The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker has a black cheek stripe, which is absent in the Middle Spotted Woodpecker.
• Vocalizations: Listen for the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker's high-pitched calls and rapid drumming.

Size

The Middle Spotted Woodpecker is larger than the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.

Plumage

The Middle Spotted Woodpecker has a red crown that is more extensive and visible in both sexes, whereas the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker's red crown is smaller and only present in males. Both species have black and white barred backs, but the Middle Spotted Woodpecker lacks the black cheek stripe found in the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit similar woodpecker behaviors, such as drumming and foraging on tree trunks, but the Middle Spotted Woodpecker is often found higher in the canopy.

Habitat

The Middle Spotted Woodpecker prefers mature deciduous forests, especially with old oak trees, while the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker can be found in a wider range of wooded habitats, including parks and gardens.

Voice

The Middle Spotted Woodpecker's call is softer and less frequent, while the Lesser Spotted Woodpecker has a distinctive, high-pitched call and a rapid drumming that is more often heard.