Once you hear the piercing call of a Pileated Woodpecker, you can’t unhear it. The high, clear, piping sound resonates, while the up-and-down flying style is also distinctive. And that stunning red head atop a large body… you just can’t miss them.
But what’s truly remarkable about the Pileated Woodpecker is the role it plays in the forest ecosystem. Often called the construction crew of the woods, these birds carve out large tree cavities that become vital shelter for many other species. The distinctive rat-a-tat-tat of their powerful beaks can echo for miles as they work. While smaller woodpeckers also create cavities, the larger holes left by Pileateds are especially valuable—spacious enough to be reused by a wide range of wildlife, from squirrels to fishers—making them a keystone species in maintaining forest biodiversity.
Surprisingly, not much is known about the Pileated’s range and habitat use. But NRRI researchers aim to address that. With funding from the state and help from the bird-loving public, they are setting out to gather as much information on this species as possible.
“The goal of this study is to dig deeper and understand what they really need to thrive long term,” explained NRRI Avian Ecologist Annie Bracey. “What tree species and diameters are most suitable? How does forest age affect nesting success? How does human activity shape their behavior?”
Gathering Data
While broad-scale survey data exist, this research focuses on fine-scale insights—how much space these birds require, how they move through the landscape, and what specific forest features they rely on. It also examines how forest dynamics, such as fire or logging, alter the landscape and affect habitat availability.
To get at that finer scale, study sites are established in northeast and north central Minnesota. Within each region, areas representing low, medium and high levels of human land use have been identified, focusing on logging activity and forest fragmentation. The team will compare how woodpecker behavior and movement differ across these landscapes.
“The ultimate goal is to provide data-driven guidance for forest management practices that support the conservation of Pileated Woodpecker habitat and the numerous species that depend on their nesting cavities,” Bracey added.
Citizen Science at Work
Birding is a popular and well-supported hobby in Minnesota, and NRRI’s Avian Ecology Lab is tapping into this enthusiasm by inviting birders, naturalists, and amateur ornithologists across the state to help locate Pileated Woodpecker nesting cavities. Participants can easily contribute sightings using an online form, and with the help of smartphones, include GPS coordinates to improve location accuracy.
These contributions will directly support ongoing research on Pileated Woodpecker behavior, habitat use, and conservation. “If we can get enough data about where the Pileateds are nesting, we can then model habitat suitability across Minnesota,” said Bracey. “The more information we can get, the better.”
If you know of a Pileated Woodpecker nest and would like to contribute to the study, please visit our website: z.umn.edu/PIWO to see how you can help.
Funding is provided by the Environment and Natural Resources Trust Fund as recommended by the Legislative Citizen Commission on Minnesota Resources.
PHOTO TOP CREDIT: Mick Thompson via Flickr