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Acorn Woodpecker
Sunday, March 8, 2026
20.5078, -103.5994
95%
Acorn Woodpecker
Melanerpes formicivorus
The Acorn Woodpecker is known for its striking black, white, and red plumage and its unique habit of storing acorns in granary trees. These social birds are often seen in groups, chattering noisily as they work together.
Fun fact: Acorn Woodpeckers create 'granary trees' where they store thousands of acorns in holes they drill into the bark.
Size
About 20 cm in length
Diet
Omnivorous, primarily acorns and insects
Lifespan
Up to 9 years in the wild
Behavior
Highly social, often seen in groups
HabitatWoodlands and forests, especially oak forests
Jalisco: Yes
Mexico: Yes
Native rangeWestern North America to Central America
Golden-fronted Woodpecker
Melanerpes aurifrons
Lacks the black and white facial pattern of the Acorn Woodpecker
Red-headed Woodpecker
Melanerpes erythrocephalus
Has a completely red head and lacks the white eye patch
  • KingdomAnimalia
  • PhylumChordata
  • ClassAves
  • OrderPiciformes
  • FamilyPicidae
  • GenusMelanerpes
  • SpeciesMelanerpes formicivorus
Least Concern

Trend Stable
ThreatsHabitat loss due to deforestation
Sources

Image & Location

GPS20.5078, -103.5994
Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus) — BioJalisco