Pileated Woodpecker

Dryocopus pileatus

This large and elegant woodpecker is often shy and hard to observe. Although mainly a forest bird, it has recently become adapted to civilization and can even be seen on the outskirts of large cities. Its presence is most easily detected by its loud, ringing call (think Woody Woodpecker) and by the large (fist-sized), rectangular holes it digs in trees. It uses its enormously long, sticky tongue to reach into the holes and get at the burrows of carpenter ants, its chief food.

Look For : A large bird with black-and-white stripes on red-crested head.

Length : 16-20".

Habitat : Forests.

Range : Eastern half and northwestern region of North America.