The Red-headed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker found in North America. With its striking plumage of black wings and tail, white underparts, and bright red head and neck, it is easily identifiable and a popular bird among birdwatchers. But beyond its distinctive appearance, the Red-headed Woodpecker has symbolic and cultural meanings as well.
Physical Description
The adult Red-headed Woodpecker measures 19–22 cm (7.5–8.7 in) in length with a wingspan of 33–38 cm (13–15 in). Key identifying features include:
- Bright red head and neck
- Black upperparts with white patch on wings
- White underparts
- Black tail with white outer tail feathers
- Bright yellow eye
- Black bill
The plumage pattern is strikingly bold and visible at a distance. The red head combined with the largely black and white body make this woodpecker unmistakable. Females have a gray nape and males have a red nape.
Juveniles are similar to adults but have a gray head, neck, and breast. The red head is acquired after the first year.
Behavior and Habitat
The Red-headed Woodpecker is found in open woodlands, woodland edges, clearings, and agricultural areas throughout the central and eastern United States. Its range stretches from Manitoba and Montana in the north to Texas and Florida in the south.
This species spends much of its time hawking for flying insects from an exposed perch. It also forages for insects and larvae on tree trunks and branches. It mostly eats insects but will take advantage of seasonal fruits and nuts as well.
The Red-headed Woodpecker is known for its caching behavior. It stores live insects and nuts in the crevices of trees to eat later. It is one of the few woodpecker species known to cache food.
These woodpeckers are adept flyers and regularly fly out from their perch to catch insects in mid-air. Their flight pattern is an undulating flight with alternating flaps and glides.
Red-headed Woodpeckers nest in the cavity of a dead tree, with nest holes 10–15 m (33–49 ft) above ground. They may reuse a nest site in subsequent years.
Vocalizations
The Red-headed Woodpecker has a wide range of vocalizations. Its most common call is a short, sharp “klee-ur.” Other sounds include:
- Rattling calls
- Structural drumming on wood or metal
- Loud vocalizations while in flight
This species engages in drumming behavior, using its bill to rhythmically tap on dead trees. This produces a rolling, resonant sound that marks its territory. The drumming serves as a communication tool between individuals.
Relationship to Humans
The Red-headed Woodpecker has had many interactions and associations with human cultures over the years.
Importance to Native Americans
Native American tribes viewed the Red-headed Woodpecker as a symbol of love and devotion. Its monogamous mating habits and propensity to reuse nest sites year after year were seen as emblematic of commitment and fidelity.
Some tribes also saw the red head feathers as a sign of strength and passion. Customarily, a warrior would add the red head feathers to his headdress or ceremonial dress.
Folklore and Symbolism
In Europe during Medieval times, the Red-headed Woodpecker was viewed as a magical creature. Its red head suggested an association with flames, blood, and war.
Because of its ability to peck into trees, it was sometimes viewed as a bearer of knowledge or insight.
The woodpecker also has a place in folklore as a symbol of determination and energy. Its relentless pecking into tree bark mirrors a driven, consistent effort to achieve one’s goals.
Cultural References
The vibrant coloration of the Red-headed Woodpecker has captured people’s imagination. It has been referenced in music, films, sports team mascots, and commercial brands.
- Woody Woodpecker – popular animated cartoon character
- Redheaded Stranger – 1975 album by Willie Nelson
- Arkansas State University sports teams – “Red Wolves”
- Redwood High School – Visalia, California uses the red-headed woodpecker as its mascot
Conservation Status
The Red-headed Woodpecker has experienced concerning population declines in recent decades. Habitat loss and competition with invasive bird species are primary threats.
Due to declining numbers, the Red-headed Woodpecker is listed as Near Threatened on the IUCN Red List. Its global population is estimated at 1.5 million individuals.
This woodpecker is protected under the U.S. Migratory Bird Act but has no special federal endangered species status. State wildlife agencies classify it as a Species of Special Concern in many parts of its range.
Conservation actions such as protecting oak savannahs and oak-hickory woodlands, its favored habitats, and erecting nest boxes can help reverse the declines. More research is needed to fully understand causes of mortality and solutions.
Conclusion
With its unmistakable plumage and energetic behavior, the Red-headed Woodpecker holds a unique place in the natural world. This medium-sized woodpecker has also woven its way into the cultural fabric of North American history. From Native American legends to modern pop culture, the “flying checkmark” continues to fascinate people inside and outside the birding community.
While facing concerning population declines, active conservation efforts focused on protecting prime habitat can help ensure the Red-headed Woodpecker remains a vibrant part of the ecosystem. This iconic bird still has rich symbolic meaning that future generations should have the opportunity to appreciate.