Red-cockaded Woodpecker
NameRed-cockaded Woodpecker
Common NameRed-cockaded Woodpecker
Scientific NamePicoides borealis
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)36.5
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)48
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black cap and nape, a prominent white cheek patch, and a black and white barred back. The underparts are white with black spotting on the flanks. Males possess a small, often inconspicuous red streak (cockade) behind each eye.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a sharp, high-pitched 'sklit' or 'sklit-sklit' call, often repeated. They also produce a squeaky 'skee-skee-skee' call and various chattering notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, primarily in longleaf pine forests from southeastern Virginia south to Florida and west to eastern Texas and Oklahoma.
Identifying Featuresblack and white barred back, white cheek patch, black cap and nape, small red cockade (male, often hard to see), excavates cavities in live pine trees
Description
This small woodpecker is known for its distinctive black and white plumage and its unique habit of excavating nesting and roosting cavities in living pine trees, often in fire-maintained forests. It is a cooperative breeder, with offspring often assisting parents in raising subsequent broods.
