A fairly large, predominantly green woodpecker that is unmistakable across most of its range. It shows a red crown, pale eyes, and a black face; the male also has a red moustache mark. A yellowish rump is most noticeable in its gently undulating flight. Juveniles are heavily barred and spotted overall and lack the bold facial pattern of adults. This species favours open woodland, heathland, gardens, and farmland with hedgerows and scattered trees. Unlike many woodpeckers, it spends much of its time on the ground, often on lawns, probing into ant nests and moving with a curious shuffling walk. Its call is a loud, ringing “kee-kee-kee-kee-kee,” and it drums only occasionally

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