Putting A Tongue Out!

Did you know that a woodpecker's tongue wraps around the back of its brain?


Yes, it's true! Having its tongue wrapped around the back of its brain doesn't just give a woodpecker somewhere to store a long appendage; it also helps protect its brain from being injured during high-speed pecking. The drumming noise we here in spring when they're around.


A great spotted woodpecker's tongue can stick out 40mm from their beak, meaning they can get insects out of deep crevices.


I didn't expect to be using this shot today but I'm so glad I took it. We were meant to be going on a walk in a nature reserve in the Haweswater valley but it was postponed due to rain.