Melanerpes carolinus
L 9 1/4" (24 cm).

Song or calls:
Listen (UNL audio)
Listen (UNL audio2)
Rolling “churr” or “chiv-chiv.”

more images

photo by Phil Swanson

Description: Black-and-white barred back; white uppertail coverts; barred central tail feathers; white belly with a small reddish patch or tinge. Male has more extensive red on head, having red on both the crown and nape. Females only have red on the nape.

Habitat: Fairly open forest stands, often in riverbottom forests. Often seen in orchards, and urban parks and gardens.

Where in Nebraska: Common permanent resident in eastern Nebraska. Extends west along major river systems. Regular breeder

Status: May be extending its breeding range northward and westward.

Fun Facts: As many as half of all Red-bellied Woodpecker nests in some areas get invaded by starlings. Excavates its nest in 7-10 days.