Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus

Acorn Woodpecker Melanerpes formicivorus The sociable Acorn Woodpecker is found in oak and oak-pine woodlands in the West, where it feeds on acorns; in towns and residential neighborhoods, it also consumes walnuts, pecans, and other delicacies. In the fall, the Acorn Woodpecker carefully stores acorns in small holes it drills in the trunks of trees, wedging the nuts in tight to keep them safe from squirrels.

Identification Adult male black above with red crown patch; black extends over eye; forehead, cheek, and throat creamy white; upper breast black; belly, wing patches, and rump white. Female similar but with black forecrown.

Voice A loud Ja-cob, Ja-cob or ya-cup, ya-cup, ya-cup; also drums with bill.

Habitat Pine-oak and oak woodlands, city parks, and suburbs.

Range S. Oregon through W. California to Baja California; Arizona, New Mexico, and W. Texas. Does not migrate.