The Red-cockaded Woodpecker is one of the least known of the family. Although widespread in the Southeast, it is local and restricted to mature pine woods that contain trees whose heartwood has been softened by fungus, where the bird digs its nest cavity. Much less noisy and conspicuous than other woodpeckers and therefore seldom noticed, it travels in family groups of four to six. This woodpecker also has the peculiar trait of digging holes in trees adjacent to its nest, allowing pine gum or resin to ooze from the holes. Such signs of pitch may be evidence of its presence.

description 8" (20 cm). Cap and nape black; large white cheek patch; back barred black and white; white below with black spots on sides and flanks. Male has small, hard-to-see red spot behind eye.

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