When I reflect on six decades (or so) of birding, I see an order to the kingdom. Eagles reign as kings, hawks and falcons as princes, owls serve as judges for the realm, and the palace choir fills with warblers, wrens and orioles.

What’s missing? Sure, the court jesters. These birds arrive on stage in perky black-and-white tuxedos with a splash or two of red or sometimes yellow. They fly with an exuberant undulation. Notably, they feed in a constant head-bobbing motion drilling into the bark of both soft palms and hardwoods – because, as their name commands, they love to peck at wood.

Woodpeckers rank among the great entertainers. Whether it’s a serious hunt in Alaska, a stroll along the Brandywine in Delaware, or chasing an errant golf shot off the Grand Harbor fairways, spotting one or another species of woodpecker brightens the day.

Thanks to strong feet with four toes – one that rotates – woodpeckers climb up and down tree trunks with ease. Their sturdy bills work as sharp tools to dig out insects as well as to carve nest cavities. Their appetite centers on insects, although some species will eat fruits and seeds. Most are territorial and monogamous, at least for a season. Migration is limited and most Florida woodpeckers stay put year-round.

At Grand Harbor, we have five woodpeckers to enjoy:

• Red-bellied Woodpecker – very common and a fan favorite on Audubon birdwalks. Stands about 9 ½ inches. Often sighted as in flight with its distinctive up and down undulation. Named for its easily overlooked rosy belly, although the bright red nape is can’t-miss. Excavates holes in rotten trees. Can be driven from nest by Starlings and Grackles.

 

• Red-headed Woodpecker – much less common and a prized sighting. Stands 9 inches with an unmistakable bright red head sported by males and females. Has prospered better in Southeast, population declining in Northeast and Midwest due to habitat loss. Shows white patches on wing and tail when flying.

 

 

 

• Downy Woodpecker -- smallish bird known to backyard feeders throughout the USA. Sparrow-sized at 6 ½ inches in length. Abundant and active in our area. Its strong bill and long tongue, typical of woodpeckers, are ideal for searching out insects under tree barks. The black-and-white dress and red splotch on males’ necks make the Downy look like a smaller Hairy Woodpecker.

 

• Pileated Woodpecker – most majestic woodpecker in New World at crow size of 19 inches length. Its drumming on trees makes heavy noise that can be heard for hundreds of yards in every direction. Only crested woodpecker. Shy, prefers deeper woodlands. Only rarely seen on birdwalks. Excavates deep holes up to 2-3 feet long for nesting. Inspiration for cartoon “Woody the Woodpecker.”

 

• Flicker – very different in appearance but a true woodpecker. Lacks black and white stark colors; but attractive with speckled breast, black necklace, brown back, and red spot on nape. Stands 12 inches with long bill. Only woodpecker that feeds on ground. Has loud call of wacko-wacko. White tail patch flashes in flight. Avid eater of ants and beetles.