red bellied woodpecker

1. Bird Name
The bird in focus is commonly known as the Red-Bellied Woodpecker. Its scientific name is Melanerpes carolinus.

2. Appearance
The Red-Bellied Woodpecker exhibits a strikingly vibrant color profile. The bird’s back and upper parts are marked with broad stripes of black and white, while its belly is pale or lightly tinted with red – hence the name. The most striking feature of this bird is its head, which sports a vibrant crimson hue in males from the crown to the nape. Females also have red markings but only at the nape area, their crowns are grayish. Both sexes have long, sharp beaks that are slightly curved, and their eyes are a stark, luminous white, surrounded by a small patch of bare skin.

3. Size
An adult Red-Bellied Woodpecker can reach a length of about 9.4-10.6 inches (24-27 cm) and typically weigh between about 2-3.2 ounces (56.7 – 91 grams). As for the wingspan, it can range from 13-16.5 inches (33-42 cm).

4. Habitat & Distribution
The habitat of the Red-Bellied Woodpecker spans across the United States, from the northeastern states towards the west coast, and extends into the north of Mexico. They are particularly prevalent in the eastern woodlands and forests, especially in areas with mature hardwood or pine trees. These birds also adapt to human-altered habitats, often sighted in parks and suburban areas.

5. Interesting Facts
The Red-Bellied Woodpecker is known for its distinctive take on ‘nesting’. Rather than building nests, it prefers to excavate its own hole in a tree. Another fascinating aspect is its ability to hang upside down on tree trunks. This act enables it to reach food unavailable to other species. Interestingly, their vibrant red head has led to misidentification, with people often calling it a Red-Headed Woodpecker – a different species altogether!

6. Diet
The Red-Bellied Woodpecker is omnivorous. It primarily feeds on insects, spiders, and other arthropods, but also enjoys fruits, seeds, and nuts. Occasionally, it may consume tree sap, small fish, and even other birds’ eggs.

7. Behavior & Sounds
The Red-Bellied Woodpecker exhibits a range of unique behaviors. From storing food in tree crevices for later consumption to displaying strong territorial habits, they always have something new to observe. Their calls are a series of loud, shrill “kwirr” or “churr” sounds. During courtship, drumming becomes a display as males seek to impress females.

8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker is currently listed as the “Least Concern” category, as its population appears to be stable, and in some regions, is steadily increasing.

9. Lifespan
In the wild, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker typically lives up to 12 years. There are rare instances where they have been found to live beyond 20 years.

10. Additional Notes
In Spanish-speaking regions, the Red-Bellied Woodpecker is often referred to as ‘Carpintero de Vientre Rojo’. They usually don’t mind human presence and can be spotted in backyards, often visiting bird feeders. Ecologically, these woodpeckers play a vital role in controlling insect populations. Their tree cavities provide nests or shelter for various species of birds and mammals. Thus, their presence positively impacts overall biodiversity.