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Gila Woodpecker

Melanerpes uropygialis

Photo by JoshuaGSmith
Published on Project Noah
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33.5092, -111.899

Field Notes

Habitat:

Suburban area near Saguaro-dominated desert

Notes:

This desert woodpecker was seen entering and exiting its nest hole in a Saguaro Cactus. I heard the cries of its chicks inside. I also heard its call, “Churr!” I realize now that Gila Woodpeckers remove the cactus spines around the tunnel entrance to prevent injury.

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (4)
KathleenMcEachern
I don't know JoshuaGSmith! I just checked my 2 spottings of Gila Woodpecker to see if there is any above their nest holes but none! http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/293706015 http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/304856003 Love your spotting!
JoshuaGSmith
Quick question. Does anyone know what the "mud" is above the tunnel entrance?

Spotted for Missions

Mission
Woodpeckers of North America
Photographed
PublishedJune 1, 2014

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