The One and Only

Most Woodpeckers have some red on their head so many people report that they’ve seen a Red-headed Woodpecker. However, there is really only one true Red-headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus).

The entire head, neck, and throat are bright red (in adults) with a blue-black back and snowy white under-parts.

There are several Red-headed Woodpeckers here in the park. We’re seeing four or five at a time right outside the RV. When they fly their white inner wing patches and white rump are highly visible.