Woodpeckers are among the most popular birds. I always enjoy watching them, especially the big Black Woodpecker. The woodpecker book by Gerard Gorman is one of my new favorites. As far as I know this is the only up to date English book covering all European Woodpecker species. It can be read by anyone interested in Woodpeckers, no matter if you are a professional scientist or a birder interested in those fascinating birds. And if you have not been a big woodpecker fan until now, you will be after reading this book.
After an introduction into Evolution, Taxonomy and other aspects of woodpecker life, every species of Europe is covered in detail. For every species there are sections on Taxonomy, identification, races, voice, drumming, signs (very helpful for birders), habitat, food, behaviour, breeding, holes, distribution, movements and the current status in Europe.
At the end there are some small chapters about woodpeckers and their relationship with humans, others birds and animals.
The writing style is easy to follow and never gets boring. There author really knows the subject and knows how to deliver a lot of knowledge to the interested reader. Also, the book has some amazing bird paintings by Szabolcs Kokay, which are a pleasure to look at.
To sum it up: This book is a MUST READ for anyone interested in woodpeckers.

You can also find out more about European woodpeckers on the author’s woodpecker website:
http://www.woodpeckersofeurope.info