Golden-cheeked Woodpecker

The golden-cheeked woodpecker, Melanerpes chrysogenys, is a medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 19 to 22 cm in length and weighing between 55 to 88 grams. It is characterized by its distinctive head pattern and barred black and white upperparts. The male of the species boasts a red crown and a yellow-gold nape, while the female has a grayish-buff crown and an orange-red nape. Both sexes have a whitish forehead and a wide black area surrounding the eye.

Identification Tips

To identify the golden-cheeked woodpecker, look for the following features: a longish black bill, reddish to orange-brown iris, and green-gray legs. The bird's underparts are gray-brown to brownish-buff with an olive-yellow wash and a central belly patch of yellowish orange. The tail is black with white bars, becoming progressively whiter towards the outer feathers.

Habitat

This woodpecker species is found in a variety of wooded environments, from mesophytic to xeric forests, as well as open landscapes such as savannas with trees and plantations.

Distribution

Endemic to Mexico, the golden-cheeked woodpecker's range extends from western Mexico between Sinaloa and Nayarit, south along the coast to Oaxaca, and east to Puebla.

Behaviour

The golden-cheeked woodpecker is a permanent resident within its range, foraging from the middle to upper levels of trees, either alone or in pairs. It is known to glean, probe, and peck for food.

Song & calls

Vocalizations of this species include a nasal "ki-di-dik," a loud "cheek-oo, cheek-oo, cheek-oo, keh-i-heh-ek," and a softer "keh-i-heh" or "kuh-uh-uh."

Breeding

Breeding season for the golden-cheeked woodpecker occurs from May to July. The bird excavates a nest hole in a tree or cactus, but further details of its breeding biology remain elusive.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of insects such as ants and beetles (both adult and larval), as well as fruits and seeds.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the golden-cheeked woodpecker as Least Concern. With a large range and an estimated stable population of at least 50,000 mature individuals, there are no immediate threats identified for this species. It is common to fairly common within its range, though more research is needed on its breeding biology.