Dendrocopos syriacus - Syrian Woodpecker
Feather characters. Barbules are rather short (0.71-0.89 mm) and divided into pigmented nodes and unpigmented internodes. Both vase- and bell-shaped nodes are present. Nodes are equally distributed along the entire length of barbules (30-32 per mm). They are all about the same size, slightly decreasing towards distal end. Villi are sharply pointed and internodes are occasionally kinked. Prongs are absent. Occasionally some minute prongs may be found on distal end of barbules.
Field characters. Size 23 cm. Weight; male 80 g (76.0-82.0), female 74 g (70.0-81.0) (Dunning, 1993). Very similar to Great Spotted Woodpecker. Distinguishing characters absence of black stripe on side of head, slightly more white in wings, less extensive, more pinkish colour on vent and undertail, and tail almost entirely black. Juvenile like juvenile Great Spotted Woodpecker, but underparts slightly streaked and has a reddish breastband.
Voice. Like Great Spotted Woodpecker 'kik' or 'keek', but softer and usually more silent. Also 'kirrook', somewhat like call of Moorhen.
Distribution. Common resident, spreading north-westward. Map: see MapIt.
Habitat. Like in Great Spotted Woodpecker, but more frequent in cultivated areas and less in extensive woodlands.
Food. Insects, larvae and other invertebrates. Takes more plant food throughout the year than do other woodpeckers, like seeds, nuts and other fruits. Feeds both on ground and in trees.