Below is a selection of articles written by Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery members based on extensive, direct observations over many years. The articles include information and pictures of Red-headed Woodpecker behaviors, biology, and some of the mechanisms used in the Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery study processes. The articles are downloadable as PDFs and additional articles are forthcoming.
All information and images are copyrighted.
Management Considerations
In-depth information about RHWO habitat requirements, biology, and needs and challenges for nesting, roosting, and year-round survival.
Basic Information and FAQs
This article details extensive basic information about Red-headed Woodpeckers and gives answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs).
Acorns Impact Migration
Monitoring acorn production in 200 oak trees over eight years demonstrated a direct correlation between acorn production and Red-headed Woodpecker decision making to over-winter on site or migrate away.
Nest Cavity Shape
This article visits and illustrates the interior shape of Red-headed Woodpecker nest cavities, how and why the shape changes over time, and the range of tree sizes at the nest cavity.
Nesting Tree Species
What trees are good for nests? This article presents observations of over six hundred Red-headed Woodpecker nests with information about tree species used (by percent and actual number) and also the condition of the trees used.
Brood Reduction
Brood reduction occurs in nearly every Red-headed Woodpecker nest. This article describes 11 possible causes and non-causes of brood reduction using pictures as examples with descriptions and discussion.
Nest Camera Installation
A “how to” construct and attach a nest camera box and frame on to a Red-headed Woodpecker nest tree.
Nest Porthole Installation
This article describes how to create a porthole into an active RHWO nest cavity so nestlings can later be accessed to place transmitters onto them and gather other data before they fledge.
Nest Camera Revelations
Nest cameras placed close to Red-headed Woodpecker nests and roost cavities reveal new nesting behaviors and interactions by these woodpeckers along with many of the animals they interact with all year and both day and night.