Gila Woodpecker

Melanerpes uropygialis ORDER: PICIFORMES FAMILY: PICIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

A conspicuous resident in the deserts of the Southwest and Mexico, the Gila Woodpecker is a characteristic bird of the saguaro cactus forests.

For complete information on this species, visit The Birds of North America Online.

Appearance

Woodpeckers

Juvenile is similar to adult, but duller and with restricted red on head of male.

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Gila Woodpecker is the only woodpecker in its range with a black-and-white back.
Red-bellied Woodpecker has red nape and crown (in the male), and a white rump.
Golden-fronted Woodpecker has a yellow-orange nape, black central tail feathers, and a white rump.