Birds of North America
Puzzle 36 · Desert and Canyon Country · Page 56 in print
Gila Woodpecker
A Gila Woodpecker’s excavated nest chamber is left unlined. The birds may place this simple home inside a saguaro cactus or a tree.
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Arid Forest
Dry woodland habitat used by the species.
Barred Back
Black-and-white barring marks the back.
Bill Pointing
A threat posture directed toward rival males.
Head Bobbing
A head movement included in male threat displays.
Lycium
A berry-bearing plant whose fruits are eaten by the woodpecker.
Oval Entrance
A common shape of the nest opening.
Palms
Trees occasionally used for nesting.
Pecking
A feeding method used to obtain prey from vegetation.
Probing
The bill probes vegetation for food.
Red Crown
A red crown patch is present on males.
Saguaro
A tall cactus often used for nesting, particularly in a low area such as an arroyo.
Swales
Low areas that provide suitable desert habitat.
Tan Belly
The underside has a tan color.
Tan Head
The head has a tan color.
Unlined Nest
The excavated nest chamber has no added lining.
Sources
- Gila Woodpecker: Life HistoryCornell Lab of Ornithology
- Gila Woodpecker: IdentificationCornell Lab of Ornithology