Red-headed Woodpecker

Staff at the Visitor Center could hardly contain their excitement after seeing this rare beauty at the feeders! Red-headed Woodpeckers (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) are not a common sight at Hawk Mountain; they are a species of conservation concern, not yet threatened but facing a notable population decline. Adult red-headed woodpeckers are striking—their black and white body plumage contrasts the deep red of their heads, making them a favorite of many bird enthusiasts. They will occasionally visit suet feeders, but normally their diet consists of seeds, corn, acorns, beechnuts, and pecans, plus some insects and fruit.

Photo by Mary Linkevich.