Dendrocopos major (common name: great spotted woodpecker) is a medium-sized woodpecker with a plumage ranging from black to white to red.
Males and juveniles also have red spots on the head (such as the specimen in these pictures).
It is widespread in most of Eurasia and in some areas of North Africa.
Here in Italy is threatened by the continuous expansion of the alien species Psittacula krameri (common name: rose-ringed parakeet or ring-necked parakeet) which has entered into competition with native woodpeckers, is a vector of Chlamidia psittaci and could cause considerable damage to agricultural areas as already occurs in its areas of origin.
All pictures were taken in northern Italy.
Males and juveniles also have red spots on the head (such as the specimen in these pictures).
It is widespread in most of Eurasia and in some areas of North Africa.
Here in Italy is threatened by the continuous expansion of the alien species Psittacula krameri (common name: rose-ringed parakeet or ring-necked parakeet) which has entered into competition with native woodpeckers, is a vector of Chlamidia psittaci and could cause considerable damage to agricultural areas as already occurs in its areas of origin.
All pictures were taken in northern Italy.
If you're interested in knowing more about this species I give you the link to the IUCN Red List site: https://www.iucnredlist.org/species/22681124/87323054
