Melanerpes formicivorus
The Acorn Woodpecker is a striking bird with a clown-like face. It features a black body, a white rump, and a distinctive red crown. Its forehead is white, and its piercing yellow eyes are surrounded by a white facial pattern. The bird's undersides are primarily white with black streaks.
Males and females are similar, but females have a black band between the red crown and white forehead. Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage and less distinct facial markings.
Length
20cm to 24cm
Wingspan
35cm to 43cm
Weight
65g to 90g
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Black White Red
Secondary Colour
Yellow
Beak Colour
Grey
Leg Colour
Grey
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Acorn Woodpeckers are primarily found in oak and pine-oak woodlands throughout western North America, from Oregon to Colombia. They thrive in areas with a mix of oak species that provide a consistent acorn crop.
They are common in California, Arizona, and New Mexico. Some populations can also be found in urban areas with sufficient large trees, particularly in the western states.
Sea level to 3,300 meters
Temperate, Subtropical
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a Acorn Woodpecker. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
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