About blackbird-sized and striking black-and-white, it has a very distinctive bouncing flight and spends most of its time clinging to tree trunks and branches, often trying to hide on the side away from the observer.
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Its presence is often announced by its loud call or by its distinctive spring 'drumming' display. The male has a distinctive red patch on the back of the head and young birds have a red crown.
It eats Insects, seeds and nuts and has a loud 'kik kik' call.