Today’s photo features a stunning Red-headed Woodpecker perched atop a dead tree at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma. Its vibrant red head and contrasting black and white body make it a truly eye-catching bird.
What’s particularly exciting is that I’ve noticed an increase in the number of Red-headed Woodpeckers at this refuge over the past few years. This is a welcome sight, because while not currently endangered, this woodpecker species is considered a watch species in Oklahoma due to significant population declines.
Nationally, Red-headed Woodpecker populations have been steadily decreasing, with an overall decline of 2.6% annually between 1966 and 2005. This decline is even steeper when looking at the period between 1980 and 2005, with an average annual decrease of 4.2%. Globally, their numbers have also been documented to be dropping steeply. Despite a current estimated population of 1.6 million individuals, the overall trend is concerning.
Habitat loss is considered the main culprit behind this decline. Development of bottomland forests and alterations to their preferred habitats – open savannas, woodlands, and lowland forests – have significantly impacted their populations. Other contributing factors include collisions with vehicles, competition for nesting cavities with European Starlings and other woodpeckers, and even historical practices like shooting them as agricultural pests.
Thankfully, there are ongoing efforts to conserve Red-headed Woodpecker habitats. The American Bird Conservancy, for instance, is involved in programs that restore natural communities like open oak woodlands – crucial for the survival of this species.
The increase in Red-headed Woodpeckers I’ve observed at the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge offers a glimmer of hope. Conservation efforts can make a difference, and with continued habitat protection and management, these beautiful birds can continue to thrive.
Loss of habitat…😔
I’m glad they are making somewhat of a comeback.
Hey, Steve. For those in the Tulsa area who might be reading this, Oxley Nature Center in Tulsa is known for its Red-headed Woodpecker population. While hiking there, I have seen – and especially heard – dozens of these birds. They are not always easy to photograph, though!
Thanks for the information, Terry!
So good to hear that these gorgeous woodpeckers are increasing in numbers at the refuge!