White-headed Woodpecker

Leuconotopicus albolarvatus

The White-headed Woodpecker is a striking medium-sized woodpecker found in the western parts of North America. It has a distinctive black-and-white plumage with a white head and a black body. This species is known for its unique foraging behavior, often feeding on insects by peeling off bark from dead trees. White-headed Woodpeckers are typically found in mature coniferous forests, particularly in areas with ponderosa pine and mixed conifer woodlands. They are also known to inhabit burned forests and open woodlands. This woodpecker plays an important role in its ecosystem by creating cavities that are used by other bird species for nesting. However, habitat loss and forest management practices pose threats to its population.

Habitat: Coniferous forests and woodlands