By Heather Mathieson

Male Lesser Spotted Woodpecker in the Blean Complex, Kent 2025 (credit Heather Mathieson).

Abstract

In 2025, the Kent Ornithological Society (KOS) conducted the first county-wide survey of Lesser Spotted Woodpeckers (LSW) Dryobates minor to better understand the distribution and status of the species in Kent. Building on methods used in the 2022 Hampshire Ornithological Society (HOS) survey, this pilot survey identified 94 potential sites using ten years of historical sightings data (2013-2022). In total 41 sites were surveyed through the breeding season, 36 by experienced volunteers and five sites using passive acoustic monitors. These devices were found to be extremely effective at detecting LSW in low probability areas.

Overall results show a scattered distribution of LSW across the county, predominantly in areas of ancient woodland with a high density of LSW in the Blean complex – a recognised hotspot for LSW – and surrounding woodlands. As core survey sites were based on areas with historical records of LSW rather than all suitable habitat, results do not show a complete picture of LSW distribution in Kent. The detection of LSW at six new sites during the survey period emphasises that this species is likely to be more widespread than currently realised and under recorded in Kent.

As this pilot survey is the first coordinated LSW study in Kent, these results provide important baseline data that could assist future survey efforts in the county. Repeat surveys at the same sites could help monitor population trends and help inform targeted conservation management of Kent woodlands.

See the full report under the following link: Kent_Lesser_Spotted_Woodpecker_Survey_-_2025_FINAL.pdf