Red-headed Woodpeckers in Luria Park

On the Raymondale side of Luria Park, to the left of the entrance, high on a tree snag is what we are pretty certain is a Red-headed Woodpecker nest cavity. Today we observed two RHWO in and around a hole near the top of the snag. A Red-bellied Woodpecker challenged the Red-Headed Woodpecker but didn't encroach on the cavity.

The snag is up very high so getting super clear photos even with a long lens was a challenge.

Here is a RHWO in the nest cavity. The bird was in here for a very long time.

The same bird fully emerged from the cavity. We are hoping that this spring brings us RHWO chicks! This cavity will be monitored on a regular basis. The population of the RHWO has declined drastically in the past fifty years due to habitat loss. They prefer dead old and tall oaks with a forested under story. Luria Park certainly has that! They are omnivores and will catch flying insects with great skill. They will store acorns and seeds in tree bark or the shingles of houses. They will also raid bird's nests for eggs or baby birds.

You will know they are near because they like to chatter. Just look up!