Pileated woodpecker (male)

Description:

Pileated woodpeckers are recognized by their large size, dark plumage and contrasting white markings on their face and neck. Males have a red crown and moustachial stripe.

Habitat:

Spotted at Dash Point State Park. Mixed forest. Any forest type (broadleaved, coniferous, or mixed) can sustain Pileated Woodpeckers as long as there are trees large enough for roosting and nesting. Pileated Woodpeckers are often associated with mature and old-growth forests but can breed in younger forests if they contain some large trees. In western Washington, they typically roost in western hemlock and western red cedar.

Notes:

Pileated Woodpeckers play an important role within their ecosystems by excavating nesting (pic 6) and roosting cavities that are subsequently used by many other birds and by many small mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.