Woodpeckers - Family Overview

Woodpeckers are a distinctive group of birds known for their strong bills, specialised skull structure, and characteristic habit of tapping or drilling into wood. Belonging to the family Picidae, woodpeckers are found across a wide range of habitats, from dense forests and woodlands to plantations, scrub, and even urban green spaces. These birds are primarily insectivorous, feeding on ants, beetles, larvae, and other invertebrates hidden beneath tree bark. Many species also consume fruits, nuts, and tree sap, especially when insects are scarce. Their stiff tail feathers help brace the body against tree trunks, while their long, barbed tongues are adapted to extract prey from crevices. Woodpeckers play an important ecological role by controlling insect populations and creating nesting cavities that are later used by other birds and small animals. Drumming, rather than vocal calls, is often used to establish territory and communicate during the breeding season. India hosts a rich diversity of woodpeckers, ranging from large forest-dwelling species to smaller, more adaptable forms. These birds are often indicators of healthy woodland ecosystems and are among the most visually striking birds encountered during forest birding.