Know Your Birds: Red-Headed Woodpecker
The Red-Headed Woodpecker is, at least here in Michigan, a commonly misidentified bird.
The Red-Headed Woodpecker is uncommon. You can find it in wooded areas and backyards here, but you are much more likely to encounter the Red-Bellied Woodpecker.
It's easy to see why these birds get confused. Looking at a Red-Bellied Woodpecker, one can be forgiven for assuming it's a "red-headed woodpecker," since its red belly is not particularly prominent and is often hard to see:
Though at times you can indeed catch a glimpse of its red belly:
Once you've had a good look at a Red-Headed Woodpecker, though, it will stick in your mind. Its entire head â not just its cap â is a beautiful, crimson color, and it's an unmistakable bird:
