Red-cockaked Woodpecker
Picoides borealis
Why is it in danger of extinction?
The loss of suitable habitat has caused the number of RCWs to decline by approximately 99% since the time of European settlement. The primary habitat of the RCW, the longleaf pine ecosystem, has been reduced to 3% of its original expanse. Many RCW populations were stabilized during the 1990’s due to management based on new understanding of RCW biology and population dynamics. However, there are still populations in decline and small populations throughout the species' current range are still in danger of extirpation.
Regulations
Because the species is endangered, some known nesting areas may be off limits and bird watchers should respect those regulations.