Pileated Woodpecker

Photo from from the Breeding Bird Survey page

Last updated 4/13/96

This largest of North America's remaining woodpeckers is easily heard, but often not seen. Its loud kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk call echos through the dense mature forests that it prefers. It seems to be adapting to humans and is becoming more common near man where large enough tress remain.

Clues that it might be present are the large oblong nest holes that it excavates in dead trees (or in a pinch telephone poles).

Mostly black on the back with a flaming red crest it is easily recognized when pearching. Males have a red mustache. In flight the white underewings can be seen flashing.

Look for Pileated Woodpeckers at Brazos Bend State Park, Jones State Forest, and White Memorial Park

A breeding range map is available from the Breeding Bird Survey
A winter range map is available from the Christmas Bird Count

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