THESE cute customers have found a new home after being rescued.

Nigel Nelson, who runs Bournemouth Bird Rescue from his home in Kinson, has taken in the five greater spotted woodpeckers.

He said: “You don’t see them very often. This is a young brood of five which a young man found on a path.

“I can only imagine that something nasty happened to one of the parents. They’re doing really well.

“We will rehabilitate them and release them somewhere in the right habitat.”

Bournemouth Bird Rescue has been running for five years.

According to the RSPB, the birds are about blackbird-sized and striking black and white. The breed is characterised by its distinctive, bouncing flight and spends most of its time clinging to tree trunks and branches, often trying to hide on the side away from observers.

The bird announces itself by its loud call or its spring “drumming” display.

Males have a red patch on the back of the head, while young birds have a red crown.

They are found in woodlands, especially with mature broad-leaved trees, and also in parks and large gardens.