We are absolutely thrilled to share some very exciting news – we have a resident woodpecker living in one of our cherry trees! Although we’ve often spotted her flying around the school grounds, sightings of her at her nest have been much rarer… until now! Can you spot her in the photo below?

She has been busy making a home in one of the cherry tree trunks, and we are delighted that she has chosen our school as a safe and peaceful place to nest. Interestingly, she made two entry points during the holiday – the first wasn’t quite right, but the second attempt was a success! In the process, she made quite a mess, but we were all very impressed by her determination and building skills.

Our woodpecker clearly enjoys the sound of the children playing and learning, and we’re making sure the area around her home is kept safe and undisturbed. Here are a few fun woodpecker facts:

• Woodpeckers can peck up to 20 times per second!
• Their strong beaks and shock-absorbent skulls help them drill into trees without hurting themselves.
• They drum on trees to mark their territory and to attract a mate.
• Most woodpeckers nest in holes they make in dead or decaying trees, which is why our cherry tree trunk is perfect!

We’ll keep you updated on any future sightings – and who knows, maybe there’ll be chicks before long! Go Gomer.