The golden-cheeked woodpecker is a species of bird in subfamily Picinae of the woodpecker family Picidae. It is endemic to Mexico.
Region
Western Mexico (Pacific slope)
Typical Environment
Found along the Pacific slope from coastal lowlands into interior foothills, using tropical dry forest, thorn forest, riparian woodland, and semi-open country. It frequents forest edges, second growth, agricultural mosaics, and urban green spaces. The species readily uses areas with scattered large trees or columnar cacti for feeding and nesting. It avoids dense, closed-canopy montane forest but thrives in broken, sunlit habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to western Mexico, the golden-cheeked woodpecker adapts well to tropical dry forests, thorn scrub, and even parks and orchards. It excavates nest cavities in dead trees and large cacti, creating shelters later used by other species. Pairs defend territories year-round and are often seen foraging methodically along trunks and large branches.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups. Pairs maintain territories and excavate nest cavities in dead snags or large cacti. Both sexes participate in nest excavation and care for young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp peek and churr notes, often given in quick series. Drumming is short and resonant on dead wood, used for communication and territorial display.
Plumage
Zebra-barred black-and-white back with paler, lightly marked underparts and a conspicuous golden-yellow cheek patch. Male shows a red crown/nape patch; female lacks or has reduced red. White rump contrasts in flight; tail mostly dark.
Diet
Takes wood-boring beetle larvae, ants, termites, and other insects from bark and dead wood. Also consumes fruits and berries, including cactus fruit and figs, and will visit orchards. Occasionally gleans from foliage or probes into soft wood for hidden prey.
Preferred Environment
Forages on trunks, limbs, snags, and large cacti in dry forest and thorn scrub. Frequently uses edges, clearings, and human-modified areas with scattered trees and palms.
