Pileated Woodpecker
Family:
Picidae (woodpeckers) in the order Piciformes
Description:
A crow-sized woodpecker that is primarily black, with white highlights and a red crest. Males have an entirely red crown and a red moustachial streak. Both sexes have horizontal black and white stripes on the face and a white stripe that extends down the neck. Seen from below in flight, the wing lining is white, and a white line extends along each side of the throat to the base of the bill. The loud, resonant drumming sounds something like a banging hammer.
Size:
Length: 16 1/2 inches (tip of bill to tip of tail).
Habitat and conservation:
Pileated woodpeckers favor large forests; they excavate nest cavities in dead trees, so mature forests containing suitable nesting trees are important.
Foods:
Insects, nuts, fruits and sap make up most of the diet; in winter, ants constitute much of the food supply.
Distribution in Missouri:
Statewide, in appropriate habitats.
Status:
The pileated woodpecker is an uncommon permanent resident in forested habitats throughout most of Missouri. It is most abundant in the large forests of the Ozarks, and least common in the northwest region.
Life cycle:
In spring, the male bores a nest hole in a tree trunk, and the pair raise their nestlings together.
Human connections:
These large woodpeckers are striking to behold. They certainly made an impression on the makers of the “Woody Woodpecker” cartoon, whose main character was modeled after this species.
Ecosystem connections:
This species plays an important role in decreasing populations of insects, many of which might seriously injure trees if left unchecked. Also, the nest cavities they create are used later by many other animals that can’t bore their own cavities. MDC's Mission, Vision, Priorities
MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources.
We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature.
Shortened URL
http://mdc.mo.gov/node/981
