Woodpeckers (Picidae)
Gila Woodpecker
Melanerpes uropygialis. Insects, cactus fruit and nectar.
Woodpeckers (Picidae)Gila WoodpeckerMelanerpes uropygialis
- Scientific name
- Melanerpes uropygialis
- Length
- 8–10 in
- Weight
- 2.2–2.8 oz
- Nest
- Cavity in saguaro or trees
- Entrance hole
- Does not use nest boxes
- Clutch
- 3–5 eggs
- Incubation
- about 14 days
- Broods
- 2–3 per season
Identification
- Tan head and body
- Zebra-barred back
- Male small red cap
Voice
Rolling 'churr' and 'pip' calls.
Diet and feeding
Insects, cactus fruit and nectar.
What do gila woodpeckers eat? · Best feeder for gila woodpeckers
Gila Woodpeckers by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Year-round resident | March–July |
| California | Year-round resident | March–July |
| Nevada | Year-round resident | April–July |
| New Mexico | Year-round resident | April–July |
Frequently asked
What do gila woodpeckers eat?
Insects, cactus fruit and nectar. At feeders: suet, oranges, nectar, sunflower.
How big is a Gila Woodpecker?
8–10 in long and 2.2–2.8 oz.
Do gila woodpeckers use birdhouses?
No. Cavity in saguaro or trees.
Sources
- Gila Woodpecker — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Gila Woodpecker life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Gila 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.