Family: Picidae, Woodpeckers view all from this family

Description ADULT MALE Has grayish white underparts that show off dark eye and contrast with dark tail. Note the red crown and yellow feathers above base of upper mandible. ADULT FEMALE Similar, but crown is gray, and yellow on nape and above base of bill is paler. JUVENILE Similar to respective sex adult but yellow elements of plumage are absent.

Dimensions Length: 9 1/2" (24 cm)

Habitat A mainly Central American species whose range extends to Texas and southern Oklahoma, where it is resident and locally common. Favors a wide range of wooded habitats.

Observation Tips Easy to see in Lower Rio Grande Valley.

Range Plains, Texas

Voice Calls include agitated, churring chatters and sharp series of kek-kek-kekÖ notes.

Discussion Well-marked woodpecker that is the southern, arid woodland counterpart of Red-bellied. All birds have bold black and white barring on back and upper wings, white rump and golden yellow nape. Feeds on insects, seeds, and fruits, and will visit feeders. Nests in holes excavated in trees such as pecan. Drums loudly. Sexes are dissimilar.