How Fast Is Woodpecker Peck?

Woodpeckers strike trees at about 25 km/h — up to 20 times per second. Their skulls absorb over 1,000g of deceleration per peck without injury, an evolutionary feat that has inspired modern helmet design.

Woodpeckers' tongues wrap around the inside of their skulls — providing extra cushioning during impacts and storage when not in use.

• 1,000g per peck — yet they remain perfectly healthy
• Up to 20 strikes per second