Pileated Woodpecker
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Cephas" title="User:Cephas">Cephas</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NamePileated Woodpecker
Common NamePileated Woodpecker
Scientific NameDryocopus pileatus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)71
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsPredominantly black plumage with prominent white stripes on the face and neck. Both sexes have a flaming red crest. Females, as seen in the image, have a black forehead and a black malar (mustache) stripe, while males have a red malar stripe.
Vocalization / CallA loud, far-carrying series of 'kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk' notes, often accelerating and varying in pitch. Also produces powerful, resonant drumming sounds on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the eastern half of North America, extending north into Canada, and also found in parts of the Pacific Northwest.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent red crest, Black body with white facial stripes, Long, chisel-like bill, Distinctive rectangular foraging holes in trees
Description
The Pileated Woodpecker is a large, striking woodpecker found in mature forests across North America. It forages by excavating large, rectangular holes in dead trees to find insects. This powerful bird is known for its distinctive drumming and loud calls.
