Red-bellied Woodpecker

Description:

Pigeon sized woodpecker of the Melanerpes family with bright red nape and crown, black and white barred back and wings with a light tan breast and reddish belly. While the male sports an entirely red crown, the female has a grey cap with red nape. Not to be confused with the Red-headed Woodpecker which sports an entire head of crimson red plumage. These Woodpeckers seem to be somewhat territorial and will readily chase away other Woodpeckers and other species of birds that get too close to their preferred feeding spots.

Habitat:

Found in suburbs, parks and open woodland areas. Fairly common in southeastern Michigan.

Notes:

Photographs 1-5 show the male Red-bellied Woodpecker while Photo 6 shows the female.