Kent Ornithological Society 
KOS Lesser Spotted Woodpecker Survey 2025
The Lesser Spotted Woodpecker (LSW) is one of the UK’s most elusive and threatened bird species, with a significant population decline since the 1980s. The British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) recently reported an 81% decrease in LSW numbers (1997-2022). Despite range contraction and decline in population numbers this red-listed species is still hanging on in some counties across the UK, including Kent.
Lesser Spotted Woodpecker - Heather Mathieson
To assess the status of the LSW in Kent this year, the Kent Ornithological Survey (KOS) has launched a survey to monitor its current status and distribution across the county, with a particular focus on the pre-breeding and breeding seasons.
Survey methodology
A team of experienced surveyors are currently monitoring sites across Kent based on historical sightings of LSWs. In addition to citizen science a number of passive acoustic monitors are also being used to survey some areas of woodland. All sites have been selected to provide a representative sample of areas where LSWs were previously recorded, helping to assess the bird’s current range in Kent. Survey results will contribute to a better understanding of the LSW's distribution in Kent and provide insights for future conservation actions.
Submit your sightings and photos!
Lesser Spotted Woodpecker - Heather Mathieson
To support the ongoing survey, members of the public are encouraged to submit their sightings and photographs of LSWs. Observations can be reported through platforms such as BirdTrack, eBird, or directly to the KOS website
Additionally, the KOS are asking for those fortunate enough to photograph a LSW to send their photos, along with the relevant sighting details (date, time, location), to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
This information can help identify individual birds in areas where there may be multiple territories. All images will be credited to the photographer and used solely for conservation and survey purposes.
This collaborative effort aims to improve our understanding of the status of the LSW in Kent and hopes to support future conservation actions.
For more information, please contact Heather Mathieson the survey coordinator at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.