Acorn Woodpecker
Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q54800218" class="extiw" title="d:Q54800218"><span title="Scottish wildlife photographer">Charles J. Sharp</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameAcorn Woodpecker
Common NameAcorn Woodpecker
Scientific NameMelanerpes formicivorus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)43
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)77.5
Plumage DetailsThe Acorn Woodpecker has a distinctive black back, wings, and tail, contrasting with a white belly that features black streaking on the flanks. Its head is marked by a white forehead, throat, and a prominent white patch around the eye. Males display a bright red cap extending from the forehead to the nape, while females have a black patch separating the white forehead from the red nape. A yellow patch is visible on the breast, and the eyes are white.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a loud, raucous 'waka-waka-waka' call, often given in a rapid series. They also produce various chattering, squealing, and 'karr-r-r-r-ick' notes.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsoak woodlands, pine-oak forests, cloud forest, riparian areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Acorn Woodpecker's range extends from the southwestern United States (primarily California, Arizona, and New Mexico) through Mexico and Central America, south to the Andes Mountains in Colombia.
Identifying Featuresred cap (male), white face patch, black back, white belly with streaking, yellow throat patch, white eyes, communal granary tree behavior
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is known for its striking black, white, and red plumage and its unique habit of storing acorns in granary trees. They are highly social birds, living in communal groups that cooperate in raising young and defending their territory.
