Red-headed Woodpecker
NameRed-headed Woodpecker
Common NameRed-headed Woodpecker
Scientific NameMelanerpes erythrocephalus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)22
Weight (g)73.5
Plumage DetailsAdults display a completely crimson red head, neck, and throat. The back and upperwings are glossy black, contrasting sharply with the pure white rump, belly, and large white patches on the secondary flight feathers. Juveniles have a brownish-red head and barred flanks.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, harsh 'quirk' or 'churr' call, often repeated. They also produce a series of 'kweer' notes and engage in drumming on trees.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds across the eastern and central United States and southern Canada. Winters primarily in the southern parts of its breeding range, with some northern populations migrating south.
Identifying Featuresentire red head, black back, large white wing patches, white belly
Description
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a strikingly colored medium-sized woodpecker. It is known for its unique foraging behavior, including catching insects in flight and storing food in crevices. This species prefers open woodlands and savannas.
