Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus


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play song

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Field Marks
  • Crow-sized black and white woodpecker
  • Prominent red crest at rear of head
  • White throat
  • Entirely black body plumage except a white line that extends from bill down sides of neck to upper flanks

Habitat

Coniferous or deciduous forest. Prefers to nest in areas close to streams.  Typically roosts in hollow trees with multiple entrances.

Status

The Pileated Woodpecker is a very secretive and is rarely seen.  However, it can be found in the metro Atlanta area.  Fernbank Forest is a great place to see this bird.