Red-bellied Woodpecker
NameRed-bellied Woodpecker
Common NameRed-bellied Woodpecker
Scientific NameMelanerpes carolinus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)40
Length (cm)24.5
Weight (g)73.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are finely barred black and white, creating a ladder-backed pattern. Underparts are pale gray to buffy white, often with a faint, difficult-to-see reddish wash on the belly. Males have a red crown and nape, while females have red only on the nape and a small patch above the bill. White patches are visible at the base of the primaries during flight.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rolling, churring 'churr-churr-churr' or 'kwirr' call, and they also produce drumming sounds on trees.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout the eastern and central United States, extending into southeastern Canada.
Identifying FeaturesRed cap (full in males, partial in females), Black and white barred back, Pale belly with subtle red wash (often hard to see), Long, chisel-like bill, White rump visible in flight
Description
This medium-sized woodpecker is characterized by its striking black-and-white barred back and a pale, unmarked belly. Males display a full red cap from forehead to nape, while females have red only on the nape and above the bill. They are active foragers, often seen climbing tree trunks and branches in search of food.
