What sets this medium-sized woodpecker apart is its foraging versatility. Unlike most of its kind, it is an opportunistic omnivore, consuming insects, fruits, seeds, and occasionally small vertebrates. It is also one of the few woodpecker species known to cache food—wedging insects, nuts, and acorns into tree bark or fence posts for later use. This food-hoarding behavior is typically associated with species like jays and crows, making it a unique trait among woodpeckers.
During breeding season, the red-headed woodpecker excavates nest cavities in dead or decaying trees. Both sexes share parental duties, from incubating the eggs to feeding the chicks. Highly territorial, these birds are known for their loud vocalizations and dramatic aerial displays used to defend their nesting sites.
Despite their bold appearance and adaptability, red-headed woodpeckers have declined significantly over the past century. According to the North American Breeding Bird Survey, populations have dropped by more than 60% since 1966. Habitat loss, fire suppression in oak savannas, and competition with invasive species like European starlings for nesting cavities are major threats. The species is now listed as Near Threatened by the IUCN.
Conservation efforts—such as controlled burns, preservation of dead trees (snags), and better land management—are critical to halting further decline. With its brilliant plumage and energetic behavior, the red-headed woodpecker remains a charismatic and vital member of America’s avian community.
Red-Headed Woodpecker: Ecology, Behavior, and Conservation
