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Woodpeckers are small to medium-sized, mostly black-and-white birds, with strong, sharply pointed bills for chiseling and digging into trees. They drill in search of food (insects and larvae) and to excavate nesting cavaties. As they climb up tree trunks they use their stiff tails as a brace. Their flight is undulating, with the wings folded against the body after each series of flaps. These climbers have strong feet, with two toes facing forward and two backward.
Listen
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Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus
At-a-Glance
• Incubation: 12-14 days
• Clutch Size: 3-5 eggs
• Young Fledge: 26-28 days after hatching
• Typical Foods: insects, fruits, and nuts
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Description
This woodpecker is a spectacular bird. It is large, with a brilliant black and white pattern visible when in flight. The pileated woodpecker has a loud call and a prominent red crest. It is predominantly black, with bold black and white neck markings, white underwing linings and a long, stout, dark bill. The male has a red mustache.
Habitat and Habits
The pileated is an uncommon permanent resident in larger woodlands and forested areas, particularly in southeastern Ohio. The trademark left behind readily identifies this secretive bird. His holes or diggings are oval or oblong, rather than round like all the other woodpeckers'. The song is flicker-like, only louder. It first rises, then falls in pitch.
Reproduction and Care of the Young
Like other woodpeckers, the nest of the pileated is in a tree cavity without nesting material and contains four white eggs. Both parents care for the young. |
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