How to identify the Gila Woodpecker

To correctly identify the Gila Woodpecker (Melanerpes uropygialis), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

20-25 cm (8-10 in)

Wingspan

40-43 cm (15.5-17 in)

Weight

50-70 g (1.8-2.5 oz)

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a pale brown head and underparts, with a distinctive barred black and white pattern on the back, wings, and tail. A small, round, yellow patch is present on the lower belly, often difficult to see in the field. The rump is white.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Strong, chisel-shaped, dark gray to black bill, typical of woodpeckers for excavating wood.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark gray to black.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of pale brown head/underparts, barred black and white back, and the small yellow belly patch are key. The white rump is also a good field mark, especially in flight.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles resemble adults but have duller plumage, less distinct barring, and often show a faint reddish wash on the crown in both sexes, which is more pronounced in young males. The yellow belly patch may be less vivid.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly worn or faded towards the end of the breeding season before molting.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males possess a small, circular red cap on the crown, which is absent in females. Otherwise, plumage is similar.

Key field marks

• Head and Underparts Color. Look for the distinctive pale brown (tan/buff) coloration on the head, face, and underparts. This is a key identifier that separates it from most other woodpeckers in its range.
• Back Pattern. Observe the finely barred black and white pattern on the back and wings. This 'zebra-striped' appearance is characteristic.
• Male's Red Cap. If it's a male, look for a small, circular red patch on the very top of the crown. Females lack this red patch.
• Yellow Belly Patch. Try to spot the small, round yellow patch on the lower belly. This can be difficult to see unless the bird is in good light or stretching.
• White Rump. In flight, a prominent white rump is often visible, contrasting with the barred back and tail.
• Habitat. Consider the habitat. If you're in a desert environment with saguaro cacti or riparian woodlands in the southwestern US or Mexico, it's highly likely to be a Gila Woodpecker.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its characteristic rolling 'churr' calls or the sharp 'kip' notes. These are often heard before the bird is seen.

Explore the Gila Woodpecker