White-backed Woodpecker vs Great Spotted Woodpecker

In short

The White-backed Woodpecker and Great Spotted Woodpecker can be distinguished by their back patterns and size. The White-backed has a distinctive white back with black bars, while the Great Spotted has a more uniform black back with white shoulder patches. Both species have similar calls, but their drumming patterns differ.

Identification tips

1. Check the back pattern: White-backed has a white back with black bars; Great Spotted has a black back with white shoulder patches. 2. Note the size: White-backed is slightly larger. 3. Listen for drumming: White-backed's drumming is slower and more deliberate. 4. Consider habitat: White-backed favors mature forests; Great Spotted is more versatile.

Size

The White-backed Woodpecker is slightly larger than the Great Spotted Woodpecker.

Plumage

The White-backed Woodpecker has a white back with black bars, whereas the Great Spotted Woodpecker has a black back with prominent white shoulder patches. Both species have a red undertail, but the Great Spotted also has a red nape in males.

Behaviour

Both species are adept at climbing and foraging on tree trunks, but the White-backed Woodpecker is more often found in mature forests with decaying wood.

Habitat

The White-backed Woodpecker prefers mature deciduous forests, often with dead or decaying trees. The Great Spotted Woodpecker is more adaptable, found in a variety of wooded habitats including parks and gardens.

Voice

Both species have similar calls, but the White-backed Woodpecker's drumming is slower and more deliberate compared to the rapid drumming of the Great Spotted Woodpecker.