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Strange plumage (GSW)
ChrisKten

Strange plumage (GSW) (Dendrocopos major)

I'm not really adding this to my gallery, just after other thoughts on this Great Spotted Woodpecker that's been visiting the garden for a couple of days. I've not had many replies in the ID section, and all are opinions and guesses rather than definitive (from experienced people though, so not wild guesses ;) ) So far Erythrism is winning 2 to 1, but I can find nothing like this bird online (others tend to have a yellow vent, none with this bird's head colour/pattern)

Don't worry about commenting on the picture quality, I've not uploaded it for that ;)

So, anyone have any ideas about this bird? Thanks in advance.
Habitat
Garden
Location
London UK
Date taken
22/4/2017
Scientific name
Dendrocopos major
Supporter
Well, I've never heard of the term Erythrism but it sure does look different Chris.
 
Opus Editor
Supporter
None whatsoever, Chris ... but, the image is fabulous ( ... though, you asked us not to comment ) ... would love to know the final verdict ...
 
Staff member
Opus Editor
Supporter
It's a great picture Chris!!! You sure do find the oddities don't you.

My thoughts are that its a young male just starting into his adult moult!. It will be so interesting if you could follow his progress and see what happens.
 
I am sorry, but I have to comment, Chris. ;)

Notwithstanding what it may be - Stunning shot of a beautiful Woodie.
 
What's erythism? I'll have to google that. Ah ... redness. Is this about the blushy bits on his breast? If so, then my guess would be that Delia's right. He could be just transitioning out of his reddish-brown breast streaks into full adult plumage ...?
 

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Category
Britain & Europe
Added by
ChrisKten
Date added
View count
166
Comment count
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