The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in North America, crow-sized with a flaming red crest and unmistakable loud, laughing call. It excavates large, rectangular cavities in dead trees to reach carpenter ant colonies, leaving distinctive oblong holes that become critical habitat for many other wildlife species. The cavities it creates are used by wood ducks, owls, and pine martens.
Best time to see a Pileated Woodpecker
The best time to see a Pileated Woodpecker is January–June, when about 65% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 60,277 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Pileated Woodpecker? What bird is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Pileated Woodpecker sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
Spotted a Pileated Woodpecker?
Point Huck at any plant, bird, or animal and know for sure - plus a live map of where it is being spotted near you.