The Maryland woodpecker with a red head is the red-bellied woodpecker. This species is easily identifiable by the red cap on their heads and the black and white barring along their back. However, it’s important to note that the red-bellied woodpecker’s name can be slightly misleading, as the red on their belly is often not very visible.
When it comes to adult red-bellied woodpeckers, there are some differences between males and females. Adult males have a red cap that extends from the bill all the way to the nape of their neck. This vibrant red coloring is quite striking and helps to differentiate them from the females.
On the other hand, adult females of the species have a slightly different coloration. They have a gray crown instead of the red cap seen in males. However, they still display some red patches on their head. They have a red patch on the nape of their neck, similar to males, as well as another red patch located above their bill. These red patches add a touch of color to their overall appearance.
Juvenile red-bellied woodpeckers, on the other hand, do not have any red coloring at all. They typically have a more subdued appearance, with a brownish crown and a lack of the vibrant red seen in adults. As they mature, their coloring gradually changes, and they develop the distinctive red cap or patches depending on their gender.
It’s fascinating to observe the differences in coloration between male and female red-bellied woodpeckers, as well as their transformation from juveniles to adults. These birds are a joy to watch with their unique markings and their characteristic behavior of drumming on trees with their strong beaks.
The red-bellied woodpecker is the Maryland woodpecker with a red head. Adult males have a red cap extending from the bill to the nape of the neck, while adult females have a gray crown with red patches on the nape of the neck and above the bill. Juveniles lack any red coloring and have a more brownish appearance. Observing these beautiful woodpeckers in the wild can be a delightful experience for bird enthusiasts in Maryland and beyond.