South · Central Flyway
Are There Red-headed Woodpeckers in Texas?
Yes, but uncommon — Red-headed Woodpeckers occur in Texas mainly from April to October. Melanerpes erythrocephalus · Picidae
Is the Red-headed Woodpecker Found in Texas?
Red-headed Woodpeckers do occur in Texas, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during the breeding season.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Red-headed Woodpeckers occur regularly are Oklahoma (about 290 miles away), Louisiana (about 380 miles away) and Arkansas (about 420 miles away).
Often mistaken for Red-headed Woodpeckers in Texas: Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker and Northern Flicker — these occur regularly in Texas, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Red-headed Woodpecker.
Red-headed Woodpecker is a North American backyard bird.
In Texas, this species is classified as uncommon. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are April, May, June, July, August, September, October. Peak activity occurs in May, June, July, August, September.
Monthly Activity — Red-headed Woodpecker in Texas
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Red-headed Woodpecker in Texas
Other birds in Texas
Birds you might also encounter in Texas.
Red-headed Woodpecker in other states
Red-headed Woodpecker in Texas: Quick Facts
The Red-headed Woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) is an uncommon bird in Texas. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the South region and the Central Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in Texas are April, May, June, July, August, September, October. For birders in Houston and throughout Texas, knowing the seasonal patterns of Red-headed Woodpecker can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in Texas using the related birds section.