Gila Woodpecker
NameGila Woodpecker
Common NameGila Woodpecker
Scientific NameMelanerpes uropygialis
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)65
Plumage DetailsAdults typically have a barred black and white back, pale brown head and underparts, and a small red patch on the crown of males. The individual pictured is albino, displaying entirely white feathers and red eyes.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rolling 'churr' or 'churrr-churrr-churrr' and sharp 'kip' notes, often given in a series. They also engage in drumming on resonant surfaces.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsdesert, riparian areas, saguaro forests, suburban areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (Arizona, southeastern California, southern Nevada) and western Mexico (Baja California, Sonora, Sinaloa).
Identifying Featuresbarred black and white back, pale head and underparts, red cap on male (typically), nesting in saguaro cacti, distinctive calls
Description
A medium-sized woodpecker native to the Sonoran Desert, known for excavating nesting cavities in saguaro cacti. They forage on insects, fruits, and nectar, adapting well to arid environments.
