Bird of the Week: Red-bellied Woodpecker

A flash of red, white and black may have you on the lookout among the trees. Red-bellied woodpeckers have red feathers atop their heads that run down the back of their neck, a white to tan chest, and zebra-like pattern on their wings and backsides. This woodpecker species is named not for its bright red head, but for the hard to spot hint of red on its belly. Often found along tree trunks and large branches, they forage mainly for insects and spiders, but also eat nuts and plant seeds during the cooler months. Backyard birders may see these woodpeckers stop by at suet feeders. Take a listen in woodland areas for this year-round resident’s loud, rolling shrills and excavating drills into bark. Happy birding!