Golden-fronted Woodpecker

The golden-fronted woodpecker, Melanerpes aurifrons, is a medium-sized bird, measuring 22 to 26 cm in length and weighing between 65 to 102 grams. It exhibits a striking plumage with males distinguished by a red crown and a golden orange to yellow nape, while females have a more subdued grayish crown and paler yellow nape. Both sexes share a similar body pattern with barred black and white upperparts and smoke gray to drab gray underparts, accented by a yellow belly patch.

Identification Tips

To identify the golden-fronted woodpecker, look for the characteristic golden-yellow nape and red crown on males, and the grayish crown on females. Their barred black and white back, along with a black tail featuring white on the outer feathers, are also key identification markers. The deep red to reddish-brown iris, black to grayish black bill, and grayish green to greenish gray legs and feet complete their distinctive appearance.

Habitat

This woodpecker species is adaptable to both mesic and xeric environments, with a preference for the latter. Habitats range from mesquite brushlands and riparian woodlands to urban parks and suburban areas.

Distribution

The golden-fronted woodpecker can be found from southwestern Oklahoma through central Texas and onto the Mexican Plateau, reaching as far as Jalisco, San Luis Potosí, and Hidalgo. It is occasionally seen in New Mexico and has been known to stray further north and east.

Behaviour

The golden-fronted woodpecker is a permanent resident within its range, maintaining territories year-round. It is known for its ability to adapt to human-altered environments and is commonly found in Texas, with less known about its population in Mexico.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of this woodpecker include a loud, harsh "kirrr" or a hard "tig tig," often repeated in series. Its drumming is characterized as short and relatively slow.

Breeding

Pairs usually remain together throughout the year and are territorial. Breeding occurs from March to July in Texas, with the possibility of two broods per year. Both sexes participate in excavating the nest cavity, which is typically situated between 2 and 9 meters above ground. Clutch sizes are generally four or five eggs, with both parents sharing incubation duties.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists of adult and larval arthropods, aerial insects, fruit, nuts, and corn. This woodpecker forages mainly in trees, focusing on major limbs and often below 6 meters. It employs various foraging techniques such as gleaning, pecking, probing, and occasionally aerial flycatching.

Conservation status

According to the IUCN, the golden-fronted woodpecker is classified as Least Concern with a stable population. It is common in much of its Texas range and appears to adjust well to human-altered environments.