Red-bellied Woodpecker
Melanerpes carolinus
Woodpecker family (Picidae)
A medium-sized woodpecker. Contrary to its name, the Red-bellied Woodpecker does not have a red belly, but has a slightly pink patch on lower belly. Tan head and belly, zebra-patterned back. Male has a red patch on nape, crown, and forehead. Female has red on nape.
Nesting:
Cavity nester. Excavates cavities in living trees or recently dead trees. Eggs are white.
Voice:
Call is a repeated “churr churr” or a more nasal “chiv chiv.”
Name Origin:
The genus name Melanerpes is from the Greek for “black creeper.” The species name carolinus means “of Carolina.”
In the Nature Park:
Year-round resident.
Photos:
Red-bellied Woodpecker female (left) and male (right)
