Woodpeckers (Picidae)
Acorn Woodpecker
Melanerpes formicivorus. Acorns stored in granary trees; flying insects.
Woodpeckers (Picidae)Acorn WoodpeckerMelanerpes formicivorus
- Scientific name
- Melanerpes formicivorus
- Length
- 7.5–9.1 in
- Weight
- 2.3–3.2 oz
- Nest
- Cavity in live or dead trees, shared by the group
- Entrance hole
- Does not use nest boxes
- Clutch
- 3–7 eggs
- Incubation
- 11–14 days
- Broods
- 1–2 per season
Identification
- Clown-like black, white and red face
- Pale staring eye
- Glossy black back
Voice
Raucous 'waka-waka-waka'.
Diet and feeding
Acorns stored in granary trees; flying insects.
What do acorn woodpeckers eat? · Best feeder for acorn woodpeckers
Acorn Woodpeckers by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| California | Year-round resident | March–June |
| Texas | Year-round resident | March–June |
Frequently asked
What do acorn woodpeckers eat?
Acorns stored in granary trees; flying insects. At feeders: suet, peanuts.
How big is a Acorn Woodpecker?
7.5–9.1 in long and 2.3–3.2 oz.
Do acorn woodpeckers use birdhouses?
No. Cavity in live or dead trees, shared by the group.
Sources
- Acorn Woodpecker — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Acorn Woodpecker life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Acorn Woodpecker — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.