What the Peck? Exploring the Recent Appearance of Overwintering Red-headed Woodpeckers ( Melanerpes erythrocephalus ) in Central Wisconsin
Elizabeth Grove Wildlife Ecology and Management
Nat Holcomb (Not Pictured)
Libby Tallmadge Environmental
Ella Warsaw (Not Pictured)
Science and Management
Wildlife Ecology and Management
Wildlife Ecology and Management
Red-headed Woodpecker ( Melanerpes erythrocephalus ) populations have been in decline since the mid-1900s. This is largely due to a loss of key habitat including large snags and oak savannas. Increased hawk predation pressure, climate change, and landscape changes have also contributed to this decline in recent years. Though they are a beloved species, Red-headed Woodpeckers are not well-studied. These birds are nomadic, and food abundance often dictates their dispersal. However, they have not historically overwintered in central Wisconsin. Our long-term trapping data (2006-2025) collected at Sandhill State Wildlife Area in central Wisconsin included only one Red-headed Woodpecker capture. During our 2026 trapping season, we observed an uncharacteristic presence of young Red-headed Woodpeckers at Sandhill. A population boom and warmer temperatures could be driving young birds farther north to reduce competition and avoid depredation.
Advisors: Jason Riddle, Ph.D.
Subject Area: Wildlife
Type: Oral
35
UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources
Made with FlippingBook - Share PDF online