The red-bellied woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker of the family Picidae. It breeds mainly in the eastern United States, ranging as far south as Florida and as far north as Canada. Though it has a vivid orange-red crown and nape it is not to be confused with the red-headed woodpecker, a separate species of woodpecker in the same genus with an entirely red head and neck that sports a solid black back and white belly. The red-bellied earns its name from the pale reddish tint on its lower underside.
Region
Eastern North America
Typical Environment
Found throughout the eastern United States and parts of southern Canada, in both rural and urban settings. Prefers mature deciduous and mixed woodlands, forest edges, riparian corridors, and wooded suburbs. Common in parks and backyards where large trees and snags are available for nesting and foraging. It tolerates human presence well and readily exploits feeders and ornamental trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A common woodpecker of eastern North America, it often visits backyard feeders for suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. Despite its name, the reddish wash on the belly is subtle and often hidden, while the head shows striking red on the crown and nape. It stores food in bark crevices and has a long, barbed tongue for extracting insects. Its range has expanded northward in recent decades, helped by warmer winters and supplemental feeding.
Adult female – showing reddish lower belly
A red-bellied woodpecker seen at an angle from which its rosy belly is visible. An observer does not always get a good glimpse of the red belly.
Peeking out of its nest
A female feeding her chick
Red-bellied woodpecker feeding on the ground, Central Park, New York City
Red-bellied woodpecker feeding on peanut halves from a bird feeder in Pennsylvania
Temperament
territorial and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms monogamous pairs that defend territories year-round, especially around nest sites and rich food sources. Excavates nest cavities in dead trees or dead limbs and may reuse or enlarge holes in subsequent years. Frequently caches nuts and seeds in bark crevices and retrieves them later. In winter, may join loose mixed-species flocks while foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include a rolling, nasal 'churr' and loud, repeated 'kwirr-kwirr' calls that carry through woodlands. Drumming is strong and steady on resonant dead wood. Calls increase in frequency during breeding and territorial encounters.
