Des pics et des arbres

Abstract

Numerous signs of the presence of woodpeckers in forests can be seen on living trees. Woodpeckers dig out holes in the tree trunks to nest and debark or bore holes in them in search of the insects they feed on. In the spring they also - particularly the greater spotted woodpecker (Dendrocopos major) - hammer a series of holes in a ring shape so as to suck the sap. These injuries cause cambium necrosis and lead to the formation of rings or cankers on the stem. Woodpeckers do not however have any economic impact on forest management. In fact, these birds rely mainly on dead wood for nesting and feeding and encourage the presence of other cavity dwellers that take up residence in their deserted nest cavities.