Red-cockaded Woodpecker
Named for the rarely seen red streak above the diagnostic large white cheek patch of the male, the Red-cockaded Woodpecker is a fire dependent pine specialist in the Southern United States
Their vocalizations are similar to the Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers that can occupy the same habitat; however, the Red-cockaded has a distinct raspy quality.
Red-cockadeds typically choose live but diseased pines for their nest cavities. It can take years to complete a suitable nest cavity.
This rare but recovering woodpecker is assisted by biologists who place nest cavities inside living trees.
BradyBirder trips can be arranged to seek good looks of Red-cockaded Woodpeckers. On occasion, trip participants are rewarded with viewings of multiple red-cockaded woodpeckers. Click to arrange your trip or ask questions about these birds.