[dropcap]W[/dropcap]oodpeckers are especially adapted for vigorous pecking on trees.  They have strong chisel bills, thick neck muscles and thick bone skulls.  Plus, their claws are perfect for clinging to tree trunks.

Two of the most common woodpeckers in our area are the golden-fronted and the ladder-backed.  I have both species in my backyard.

The golden-fronted woodpecker is a large, zebra-backed bird about ten inches long.  It features a small yellow patch above the bill, which justifies ...