Conservation of two of the UK's rarest woodpecker relatives and the threats they face.
Key Facts
The wryneck no longer breeds in England and is now only a rare migrant
Lesser spotted woodpecker has declined by over 80% since the 1970s
Orchards, old woodland, and parkland with large old trees are key habitats
Lesser spotted woodpeckers excavate small nest holes in upper canopy dead wood
Loss of old orchards and mature parkland trees drives their decline
Welfare Considerations
Individual lesser spotted woodpeckers face welfare pressures from habitat loss and food shortage, requiring urgent conservation attention and old tree retention.
What You Can Do
Support old orchard conservation through the People's Trust for Endangered Species
Advocate for retention of veteran trees in parks and gardens
Report lesser spotted woodpecker sightings to county bird recording groups