This special design is needed because the woodpecker's tongue is very long. In some larger woodpeckers, it can extend nearly 10 cm to grab insects deep inside a tree. The tongue is also coated with a sticky substance that acts like a glue and makes the insects stick to the surface. When hunting for food, the woodpecker spends most of its time on the side of the tree. In order to help it grasp the bark more firmly, it has developed specialized feet.
Most birds have four toes on their feet.
Three toes point forward and one back. The woodpecker's foot has two toes pointing forward and two back. This design allows a better grasp on the side of trees and allows it to maintain its balance while hammering into the side of trees. The woodpecker's tail is also unique. The tail is strong and stiff and is used to support the woodpecker while it is hammering.