Red-bellied Woodpecker

The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a common breeder in the Chicago Wilderness Region. This cavity nester breeds in a variety of woodland habitats and appears to be expanding considerably in the Chicagoland area. BCN Survey trends show a significant yearly increase of 7%. This species' success, compared to some other woodpeckers, may be partially related to its persistent, aggressive behavior towards European Starlings or to its selection of nesting sites away from competitive species. Photo: © Eric Secker