ID Keys: Distinctive, with red head, black back and tail, white underparts.
A very distinctive and
elegant woodpecker, and the only woodpecker in the state with an all red
head. They are birds of semi-open country, and can often be found in and
around isolated shelterbelts and groves in the state. Unfortunately, they
are in decline throughout much of their range, and are only commonly seen in the
southeastern portion of the state.
Habitat
Isolated Groves and shelterbelts, orchards, shade trees. Avoids unbroken forest, preferring open country, forest edges, or forest clearings.
Diet
Omnivorous. Eats a wide variety of insects, earthworms, seeds, berries, fruit, and occasionally eggs of other birds.
Behavior
Foraging technique depends upon individual birds, seasonality, and opportunities available. Often feeds by clambering through foliage and branches, gleaning insects from vegetation surfaces. They will also flycatch, flying out from an observation perch to catch passing insects in mid-air. They will feed on the ground, hopping after insects or picking up fallen fruit and nuts.
Nesting
June and early July
Song
Red-headed Woodpecker Song
Migration
Birds in much of their normal range are permanent residents. In the northern and western edges of their range, individuals do move towards southeastern states in the winter, but usually don't migrate great distances.
Interactive eBird Map
Click here to access an interactive eBird map of Red-headed Woodpecker sightings
Feeders
Suet, sunflower seeds, cracked corn, nuts, and bread.
Birdhouses
Some will nest in birdhouses built for woodpeckers.
Similar Species
Generally distinctive.
Conservation Status
Has been in decline, possibly due to competition for nest sites with European Starlings .
Photo Information
June 28th, 2003 -- Lincoln County -- Terry L. Sohl
