How do woodpeckers avoid brain damage while pecking?

Woodpeckers avoid brain damage while pecking thanks to several specialised adaptations. Their skulls have spongy bone structures that absorb impact, and their brains are tightly packed to minimise movement. Additionally, their beaks are designed to distribute the force of impact evenly. A hyoid bone wraps around their skull like a safety harness, further cushioning the brain. These features allow woodpeckers to peck at trees thousands of times a day without injury.