The great spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) is a bird species of the woodpecker family (Picidae). It is not considered a threatened species by the IUCN, being widely distributed and quite common. In Italy, it is a protected species, that has a non-migrantory or partly migratory behavior and can get through the winter.
The upperparts are glossy black, with white on the sides of the face and neck. A black line zigzags from the shoulder halfway across the breast. The underparts are dull white, the abdomen and undertail coverts a deep red color. The bill is slate black and the legs greenish grey.
It is a very adaptable inhabitant of woodlands and, even urban parks, depending for food and nesting sites upon old trees.The nest construction is been made by various material and techniques.The food mainly consists of insects, seeds, fruit and some scraps.
A possible way of recognizing this woodpecker from others of the same family, is if seen beating a tree trunk; the faster one, is the great spotted woodpecker.
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Mario Spagnesi, Lorenzo Serra - Uccelli d'Italia - Ministero dell'ambiente e della tutela del territorio, Direzione conservazione della natura, 2003