How do woodpeckers avoid injury while pecking?

Woodpeckers avoid injury while pecking thanks to specialised adaptations in their anatomy. Their skulls have spongy bone structures that absorb shock, and their brains are tightly packed to minimise movement. A strong, flexible neck disperses the force of impact, and their beaks are designed to withstand repeated strikes. Additionally, a hyoid bone wraps around their skull like a harness, providing extra cushioning. These features enable woodpeckers to peck thousands of times a day without harm.