Gila Woodpecker

The Gila Woodpecker (Melanerpes uropygialis) is a medium-sized woodpecker of the desert regions of the southwestern United States and western Mexico. In the U.S., they range through southeastern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico. This woodpecker's habitat consists of low desert scrub typical of the Sonoran Desert, as well as arroyos (washes) and small towns.

This bird has a zebra-like pattern of black and white spots and bars on its back and wings. The head, belly, throat, and neck are all a tan-gray tint. The top of the male's head is covered by a tiny red hat. Juveniles and females are similar, but neither has the adult male's crimson cap. In flying, white wing patches are seen. White bands can be seen on the center tail feathers of the dark tail. The birds are 20 to 25 cm long.