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Red-cockaded Woodpecker

Picoides borealis ORDER: PICIFORMES FAMILY: PICIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Vulnerable

One of the few bird species endemic to the United States, the Red-cockaded Woodpecker is a bird of mature southern pine forests. Its preference for longleaf pine and the destruction of that habitat have resulted in the woodpecker becoming an endangered species.

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Appearance

Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Medium-sized woodpecker.
  • Black and white coloration.
  • Large white cheek patch.
  • Black back barred with white.
  • Black cap.
  • Black mustache and neck streak.

Immature Description

Juvenile resembles adult, but black is duller. Crown flecked with white, may have red patch in center, especially on males.

Range Map Help

Red-cockaded Woodpecker Range Map
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Field MarksHelp

  • Adult
    Zoom In

    Red-cockaded Woodpecker

    Adult
    • © Todd Engstrom/CLO

Similar Species

  • Downy and Hairy woodpeckers have white in the middle of the back and lack the white cheeks.
  • Yellow-bellied Sapsucker lacks the white cheeks and has a white stripe up its sides.