Red-bellied Woodpecker

A Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is a medium-sized bird native to the eastern United States. It is a common species in its range, known for its barred black and white back and a subtle reddish wash on its belly.

The Red-bellied Woodpecker has a black and white "ladder-back" pattern and a whitish underside. Its head is the most distinctive feature: males have a red crown and nape that extends from the forehead to the back of the neck, while females have red only on the nape. The bird gets its name from a patch of reddish feathers on its belly, which is often difficult to see in the field.

Red-bellied Woodpeckers are found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous forests, suburban parks, and backyards with large trees. They are omnivores that eat a wide variety of foods. Their diet includes insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They are a common visitor to bird feeders, especially for suet and peanuts.

Like other woodpeckers, the Red-bellied Woodpecker uses its powerful bill to bore into trees in search of insects. They are also known for caching food, storing nuts and seeds in tree crevices to be eaten later. They are a very vocal species, with a wide range of calls, including a rolling churr sound and a sharp kick-kick-kick call.