Frequently Asked Questions
If you can’t find an answer on the website, feel free to Contact RhWR with your questions. We’ll do our best to answer.
Where can I find Red-headed Woodpeckers?
Red-heads like open woods with large trees. This habitat is called a savannah. Red-headed Woodpeckers sometimes occur in groups or clusters. See Red-head Info for an overview of range, habitat and migration information.
What should I do if I find Red-headed Woodpeckers?
We’d like to know about nesting red-heads. Contact RhWR to report any information about nests. Please include location and dates observed. Also report it on eBird.
What’s so important about Red-headed Woodpeckers?
Due largely to land management practices, Red-headed Woodpecker populations have declined dramatically since 1967, up to 95% in Minnesota.
Abundance of red-heads also impacts many other species. Red-heads are primary cavity excavators and are considered ecosystem engineers. They create tree holes for nesting, food storage and roosting. Once abandoned, these cavities become sites for secondary cavity nesters, birds that will not create their own holes but depend on holes left by others. These species include bluebirds, swallows, wrens, flycatchers, kestrels, screech-owls as well as others. Squirrels are also secondary users of nest holes. Loss of red-heads can have a wide impact.
What can I do if a woodpecker is making holes in my house?
First, it is highly unlikely that it is a red-headed woodpecker. The woodpeckers are looking for insects in the wood or are drumming to make a noise. The latter is a mating ritual and should do little to harm your house. If they are looking for insects, try placing a plastic streamer in the area that they are working. This most times keeps them away. Check online for other possible solutions.