Habitat:
Old deciduous and mixed forests rich in dead wood

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The white-backed woodpecker is a medium-sized forest woodpecker of 22–25 cm, with black and white plumage featuring a broad white back and red crown in males. It inhabits old deciduous and mixed forests rich in dead wood, feeding on insects and larvae excavated from bark. During breeding, it excavates a nest cavity in an old tree and the male drums to attract the female and defend territory.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
Position yourself near an old trunk cavity and wait for the male's morning drumming. Shoot from a slight low angle to isolate the bird against the trunk, using high shutter speed to freeze peck strikes.