Red-Headed Woodpecker With Zebra-Striped Wings and a Belly Color That Sets It Apart From Other Birds
Red-headed woodpeckers are easy to spot once you know what to look for, especially when their bold coloring stands out against tree bark. Their striking look, paired with year-round vocalizing, makes them a familiar sight and sound in many backyards.
They are often confused with red-bellied woodpeckers, which are found across the eastern half of the United States and are especially common in the South. These birds are also spreading farther north, and their zebra-striped wings, backs, and faint crimson bell make them look even more distinctive up close.
That mix of color, movement, and sound is what makes this woodpecker so memorable. Read on.
Meet the Red-Headed Woodpecker
Its Hard-to-See Crimson Belly Sets It Apart From Other Bird Species
These features truly aid the bird in maintaining a firm grip on branches and tree bark as it moves from location to location in search of insects to eat. Just like most woodpecker species, male and female red-bellied woodpeckers exhibit some differences in appearance.
The male red-bellied woodpecker has full red temples, scruffs, and caps, while females have red scruffs with a hint of ruby at the base of their bills.
Check Out Its Zebra-Striped Wings and Back
Juvenile red-bellied woodpeckers have plain heads with a light red tint. Parents brood 4 to 6 eggs and are known for their aggressiveness while safeguarding their nests.
For reasons unknown, the males appear to favor the night shift when it comes to incubation.
Isn't She a Beautiful Bird? Yes, She Is
They Go From Place to Place Searching for Insects to Feed On
If you would like to have these appealing birds visit your home, you can offer them suet during the colder months or provide sunflower seeds and peanuts. They do have a firm favorite, which is sugar water, along with fruits and jelly.
If You Want to Invite Them to Your Backyard, Then Give Them What They Love
Birds like this are a beauty to behold, and the fact that they sing makes everything more endearing. Have you ever heard the tunes of one of these bird species before?
If so, how did it go? Tell us all about it and share your thoughts on this bird by leaving your comments in the section below.
Wait until you see the masked cardinal’s red face and black-and-white coat contrast.
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