Pileated Woodpecker
NamePileated Woodpecker
Common NamePileated Woodpecker
Scientific NameDryocopus pileatus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)71
Length (cm)44.5
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsMostly black body with a prominent red crest. Males have a red malar (mustache) stripe, while females have a black malar stripe. Both sexes have white stripes running from the bill, under the eye, and down the neck, as well as white underwings visible in flight.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its loud, high-pitched, and somewhat maniacal 'kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk' call that accelerates and rises in pitch. It also produces powerful, resonant drumming sounds on trees.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across much of Canada, the eastern United States, and parts of the Pacific Northwest, including northern California, Oregon, and Washington.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent red crest, Black body with white facial stripes, Red malar stripe (males), Loud, distinctive calls, Large, rectangular foraging holes in trees
Description
The Pileated Woodpecker is a large, striking woodpecker known for its mostly black plumage, prominent red crest, and white stripes on its face and neck. It forages by excavating large, rectangular holes in dead or decaying trees to find insects, often leaving behind distinctive wood chips.
