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Golden-fronted Woodpecker

Melanerpes aurifrons ORDER: PICIFORMES FAMILY: PICIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

A stripe-backed woodpecker of Mexico and Central America, the Golden-fronted Woodpecker reaches the United States only in the brushlands and open woodlands of Texas and Oklahoma.

Appearance

Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Medium- to large-sized woodpecker.
  • Back barred black-and-white.
  • Orange-yellow back of neck.
  • White rump.
  • Male with red cap.

Immature Description

Juvenile similar to adult, but duller, with fine streaking on crown and breast, and only faint color on nape and nasal tufts. Eyes brown.

Range Map Help

Golden-fronted Woodpecker Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

Similar Species

Similar Species

  • Red-bellied Woodpecker has red nape, crown (in the male), and nasal tufts, and white-barred, not black central tail feathers.
  • Gila Woodpecker has a plain gray head and nape, barred central tail feathers, and fine black bars on its rump.

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