A record 23 Lesser Spotted woodpecker nests are being monitored this year thanks to our dedicated observers. Young have fledged successfully from 19 nests (as of 7 June), one has been predated and we expect the last nest to fledge on 13 June.
So there is still time to find a nest and gather information.
Most of the nests (13) have been found in the New Forest, where there is still a good population of Lesser Spots. But we are pleased that observers have found and monitored nests in Devon, East Anglia, Gloucestershire, Hampshire (other than New Forest), Greater Manchester, Nottinghamshire (2), Somerset, Surrey (2), Wiltshire and Wales.
At most nests we have been able to observe the fledging date, whether both adults were feeding the young, details of the nest tree and surrounding habitat. At some of the nests we have been able to use our nest viewing cameras to record the first egg date, clutch size and number of young fledged. At a few nests observers have noted the feeding rates and the type of food brought to the young.
All this data is valuable to help us understand what factors are affecting breeding outcomes.
We will be publishing a report and analysis later in the summer.
Huge thanks to everyone who has helped by searching for Lesser Spots, finding nests and making observations. These birds are very difficult to find and monitor so the results this year are impressive.
If you have any information on a nest please get in touch, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or through the contacts page on this website. (information on location of nets will be kept confidential and only referred to at county or area level).
