Woodpecker

Birds known for drilling into trees.

woodpecker

Woodpeckers are birds known for their strong beaks, which they use to drill into trees in search of insects and sap. They possess zygodactyl feet (two toes pointing forward, two backward) for climbing, and their skulls are specially adapted to absorb the shock of repeated pecking.

Etymology

Woodpecker is a combination of 'wood' and 'pecker', referring to the bird's habit of pecking wood.

Explain Like I’m 5

Woodpeckers are birds that use their strong beaks to peck into trees, often looking for insects to eat or making nests.

Fun Facts

Some woodpeckers have long tongues that can extend past their beaks to reach insects deep in trees
Woodpeckers don't get headaches from pecking because their skulls are designed to absorb impact
They use their tails as a prop while climbing trees

FAQ

What do woodpeckers eat? Insects, sap, and nuts
Why do woodpeckers peck? To find food or create nests
How fast can a woodpecker peck? Up to 20 times per second

Hypernyms — Broader Categories

bird

Hyponyms — Specific Examples

pileated woodpecker red-bellied woodpecker downy woodpecker

Meronyms — Parts or Components

beak zygodactyl feet

Indexes

animal bird

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