The Green Woodpecker is the largest of the UK woodpeckers and whilst it does do some pecking and drumming on trees as it feeds on insects buried in the usually soft, rotten wood, it is more widely known for its call. This is a raucous laughing call which often causes the walker or dog walker to be startled and look around for the caller. More often than not though nothing will be seen until a glimpse is caught of a bright looking bird flying rapidly from one copse or stand of trees to another. The flight is very characteristic as it flaps rapidly to gain height but then, very strangely closes its wings and almost falls in a rapid forward dipping motion - before flapping again to regain height.
It feeds on ants and other insects, probing the ground with its beak and long strong tongue. A shy bird, only occasionally will it be seen in all its glorious detail. At least as colourful as invading parakeets or tropical parrots, the greens, yellows, blacks and splashes of red make for an arresting and unforgettable sight once it is seen.
Mocking Bird (excerpt)
As I walk on the path in the shade of trees,
In the warm summer sun and the early morning breeze,
See the rabbits hop away as my dogs come into view
Hear the laugh! –
Looking round, I see no man and no beast nor bird,
Whose laugh is that, whose strident, mocking voice I heard?
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