Red-cockaded Woodpecker
By: Maddie Leber
Scientific Name
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker's scientific name is Piocoides borealis.
What is it?
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker is a small bird that measures about 7 inches in length. It's identifiable by it's white patch and black and white spots.
Where is it Found?
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker is found mostly in Long Leaf Pines. They also occur in stands of lobolly, slash, and other pine species. The birds dig cavities in living pines that are softened from heartwood rot. They live in groups that work together to dig the cavities and raise young.
Why is it in Danger of Extinction?
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker species has declined drastically since its original habitat was cut down. The species was listed as endangered in 1970.
What is being Done to Protect it?
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker was one of the first birds protected under the Endangered Species Act of 1973. People then became aware of their state and have been trying to bring up their population number ever since. The biggest way they started change was yo stop chopping down the trees the birds lived in and the ESA (Endangered Species Act) protected the birds' habitat.