The Black Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in Europe and it is distinguished by its distinctively black plumage, which is glossy black throughout, with the exception of a crimson-red crown.
The male and female woodpecker are hard to distinguish from each other, although the entire crown of the male is crimson red and slightly raised, forming a crest, while the female has a black forehead and a red rear crown.
The juvenile black woodpecker is similar but is less glossy, with a duller red crown and a paler grey throat and bill.

Top & Left: Kootwijk, The Netherlands, 17 March 2015
Middle & Right: Spandersbos, Hilversum, The Netherlands, 13 February 2018