From Opus

Melanerpes carolinus

Adult Male
Photo by pnicholls
Georgia, USA, January 2003

[edit] Identification

• Length: 9 to 10.5 inches (23-27 cm).
• Wingspan: 15 to 18 inches (38-45.5 cm).
• Back is barred black and white.
• Adults are mainly light gray on the face.
• Male has red crown and nape
• Female has red nape and a red patch above the bill (gray on crown).
• Rosy wash on the belly.
• White wing patches are noticeable when bird is in flight.

[edit] Similar species

Golden-fronted Woodpecker which is found in central Texas, south into eastern Mexico, and northern Central America to Nicaragua.

[edit] Distribution

Eastern United States from North Dakota south to eastern Texas east to Florida and north to Maine. Expanding its range northward and westward.

[edit] Taxonomy

A monotypic species.

[edit] Habitat

Deciduous forest.

Female
Photo byDaddylion
December 2008

[edit] Behaviour

They eat insects, either in flight or from tree trunks, as well as fruits, seeds and nuts.

They make their nests in decayed tree cavities or trees such as elms, maples and willows.

[edit] Voice

Chirrup call similar to tree frog, plus an abrupt chuck chuck chuck.

[edit] External Links