Woodpeckers: Drilling Holes and Bagging Bugs

Gr 2–4—Starting with their defining characteristics, this volume provides an informative overview of woodpeckers. Starting with the question, "Why do woodpeckers peck into trees so much?," Collard leads readers through details about the birds' diets, behaviors, habitats, and family relationships. The main narrative concludes with ideas about supporting woodpeckers by protecting their habitats. The information is presented in short chapters that are straightforward and understandable, with conversational text and many jokes sprinkled throughout. Included within the main body of text are several asides which highlight selected characteristics of woodpeckers as well as notable species; these tidbits are denoted with different text and background colors. Photos of the birds are crisp and clear, allowing readers to see the woodpeckers' physical characteristics and compare species. In addition to the back matter, Collard includes some photo bloopers.