Backyard Birds of North Florida: Red-bellied Woodpecker

The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a bold and energetic backyard visitor commonly found throughout North Florida. It moves effortlessly up tree trunks and branches while searching for insects hidden beneath bark. These clever birds are known to stash seeds and nuts in bark crevices for later, showing off impressive memory and problem-solving skills.

These woodpeckers are frequent guests at suet and peanut feeders.

Despite its name, it is best known for the bright red markings on its head and neck and its striking black-and-white barred back.

Red-bellied Woodpeckers are medium-sized woodpeckers with a pale gray face and underparts, boldly barred black-and-white backs, and a sturdy chisel-like bill built for drilling into bark. Despite the name, the reddish wash on the belly is often faint and can be surprisingly hard to spot.

Identification Features: Male vs. Female Red-bellied Woodpeckers

Male:

The male has the most dramatic red coloration, with a bright red cap that extends from the bill all the way over the crown and down the back of the neck—making him especially easy to recognize at feeders and in the treetops.

Female:

Females share the same striking black-and-white barred back and pale underparts, but their red coloring is more subdued. Instead of a full red crown, females typically show red only on the back of the head and nape, with a grayish crown between the bill and the red patch.

Quick backyard tip:

If you see a Red-bellied Woodpecker at your feeder, look at the top of the head: full red from forehead to neck = male; gray forehead with red only toward the back = female.

Quick Facts

• Scientific Name: Melanerpes carolinus

• Presence in North Florida: Year-Round Resident

• Local Abundance: Common

• Migration Status: Non-Migratory

• Preferred Feeders: Suet Feeders, Platform Feeders

• Favorite Foods: Suet, Peanuts, Sunflower Seeds

• Fun Fact: The “red belly” is often difficult to see.