See all posts in the Birds of Carver County series

The Pileated Woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) is the largest woodpecker in the U.S. and Canada, and sixth largest in the world.

Its dull-black body and a black + white-striped face with a bright red crest make it recognizable at a distance without binoculars. Males have a red “mustache” stripe extending from the beak to the throat, but it may not always be evident if not in sunlight.

Measuring around 16 to 19 inches in length with a wingspan of up to 30 inches, this species can be spotted flying across roads and fields and sometimes through forests. 

They are permanent, non-migrating residents of wooded areas with dead or decaying trees, which provide feeding and nesting opportunities. Their diet primarily consists of carpenter ants, supplemented by other insects, fruits and nuts. Suet and peanut feeders will bring them close to humans.

They excavate large, rectangular holes in trees to access beetle grubs. These benefit other wildlife by creating shelter or nesting sites for mammals and other birds such as wood ducks.

The hammering of Pileated Woodpeckers chipping out these holes sounds like an ax hitting a tree. They are territorial and vocal in their adopted area, with a distinctive yodeling or laughter-like call.

These woodpeckers are monogamous and will stay in a territory after their mate dies. Juveniles will feed alongside parents after leaving the nest (June to August). Their plumage will be similar to adults, but with a smaller crest and duller face markings.

If you live in their territory, you could be lucky and see three or four Pileateds at the same time. Despite habitat loss, their populations remain stable, highlighting their adaptability to diverse forest environments.

The adjective “pileated” is used to describe birds with a noticeable crest or crown of feathers.  

The animated TV cartoon character Woody Woodpecker and its call exposed many of us baby boomers to an image and call similar to Pileated and Acorn Woodpeckers. A descriptive article in the American Bird Conservancy web page provides some historical humor.  Link.

For more information:

“Birds of the World,” Cornell Lab of Ornithology

“Sibley Guides to Birds,” David Allen Sibley

“Merlin” phone app (free), Cornell Lab of OrnithologyAmerican Bird Conservatory website “Bird Library” (free) Link