Have you ever been on a hike and heard a loud, distinctive call that you couldn’t identify? It’s frustrating not being able to place the sound to a specific bird. Luckily, with a bit of knowledge and practice, you can learn to distinguish different bird calls, including the pileated woodpecker call.
The pileated woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in North America, and its call is just as impressive. It’s a loud, ringing call that can be heard from a distance, making it easier to identify than some other bird calls. But why is it important to identify bird calls in the first place?
For birders and nature enthusiasts, identifying bird calls is an essential part of the hobby. It allows them to distinguish between different bird species and track their movements. It’s also a way to connect with nature on a deeper level, as you become more familiar with the sounds around you. In this article, we’ll delve into the characteristics of the pileated woodpecker call and provide tips for identifying it in the wild. So, let’s get started!
Contents
Characteristics of the Pileated Woodpecker Call

Description of the Call’s Sound and Pitch
The pileated woodpecker call is loud and distinctive, consisting of a series of sharp, ringing notes. The call can be described as sounding like “wuk-wuk-wuk-wuk” or “kik-kik-kik-kik,” with each note lasting about a second. The call can be heard from a distance of up to half a mile, making it a useful tool for identifying the presence of pileated woodpeckers in the area.
The pitch of the call is relatively low, with a frequency of around 740 Hz. This is lower than the calls of some other woodpeckers, such as the downy woodpecker, which has a higher-pitched call at around 8 kHz. The low pitch of the pileated woodpecker call is part of what makes it so distinctive and easily recognizable.
Comparison to Other Woodpecker Calls
While the pileated woodpecker call is unique in its sound and pitch, it can be helpful to compare it to other woodpecker calls for identification purposes. For example, the call of the red-bellied woodpecker is similar in structure to the pileated woodpecker call, consisting of a series of sharp, ringing notes. However, the red-bellied woodpecker’s call is higher in pitch, with a frequency of around 3 kHz.
Another woodpecker call that may be confused with the pileated woodpecker call is that of the northern flicker. The flicker’s call is often described as sounding like “wicka wicka wicka,” with a rising and falling pitch. However, the flicker’s call is typically shorter and less ringing than that of the pileated woodpecker.
Audio Samples of the Call
To get a better sense of what the pileated woodpecker call sounds like, it can be helpful to listen to audio samples. Many birding websites and apps, such as eBird and Merlin Bird ID, offer recordings of bird calls, including the pileated woodpecker. By listening to these recordings and practicing your ear for bird calls, you can become more confident in identifying the pileated woodpecker call in the field.
Types of Pileated Woodpecker Calls

The pileated woodpecker has several different calls, each with its own unique sound and purpose. By understanding these different calls, you can better identify the bird and even track its movements. Let’s take a closer look at the three main types of pileated woodpecker calls:
Drumming Call
The drumming call is the most common and recognizable call of the pileated woodpecker. It’s a rapid, rhythmic sound that resembles a drumroll. Male woodpeckers use this call to communicate with other males and attract mates. They may also drum on trees to establish their territory or to locate food. The drumming call can be heard from over a mile away, making it a useful tool for identifying the bird’s location.
Wailing Call
The wailing call is a long, high-pitched sound that is often compared to a monkey’s call. It’s used by both male and female woodpeckers as a way to communicate with each other and their young. It’s also used as a warning call to alert other woodpeckers of potential danger. This call is less common than the drumming call but is still distinctive and recognizable.
Other Vocalizations
In addition to the drumming and wailing calls, the pileated woodpecker has several other vocalizations. These include a “kik” call, which is used when the bird is startled or alarmed, and a “churr” call, which is used as a contact call between mates. The pileated woodpecker may also make a variety of other sounds, such as hisses and squeaks, depending on the situation.
Overall, understanding the different types of pileated woodpecker calls can help you identify the bird and learn more about its behavior. By listening for these distinctive calls and paying attention to their context, you can gain a deeper appreciation for this impressive and fascinating bird.
Identification Tips for Pileated Woodpecker Calls
Identifying bird calls can be challenging, but with the right tips and tricks, it becomes much easier. Here are some identification tips for the pileated woodpecker call:
Visual Identification Cues
The pileated woodpecker is a large bird, measuring around 16-19 inches in length. Its plumage is mostly black, with white stripes on the face and neck, and a bright red crest on the head. When in flight, the bird’s wingspan can reach up to 30 inches. Keep an eye out for these visual cues when trying to identify a pileated woodpecker in the wild.
Habitat and Range of the Bird
Pileated woodpeckers can be found in mature deciduous or mixed forests across North America. They prefer large, unbroken tracts of forest, but can also be found in smaller wooded areas. Knowing the bird’s habitat and range can help you narrow down your search when trying to identify its call.
Behavioral Patterns Associated with the Calls
Pileated woodpeckers are known for their drumming call, which they use to communicate with other birds and establish territory. The drumming call is a rapid, rhythmic tapping on a tree or other hard surface. They also have a wailing call, which is a loud, descending whinny. These calls are often associated with specific behaviors, such as foraging or mating.
Tips for Listening and Practicing Call Identification
To become proficient at identifying the pileated woodpecker call, it’s essential to spend time listening to recordings of the call and practicing in the field. The Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s website has a vast database of bird calls, including the pileated woodpecker. Take advantage of these resources to hone your identification skills and become familiar with the bird’s unique vocalizations. With practice, you’ll be able to distinguish the pileated woodpecker call from other bird calls with ease.
FAQ
Common questions about identifying pileated woodpecker calls
Q: What does the pileated woodpecker call sound like?
A: The pileated woodpecker call is a loud, ringing call that sounds like “kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk-kuk”. It’s often compared to the sound of a jackhammer.
Q: How can I distinguish between the pileated woodpecker call and other woodpecker calls?
A: The pileated woodpecker call is louder and more distinctive than most other woodpecker calls. It also has a slower rhythm than some other woodpecker calls, which can help with identification.
Q: When is the best time to hear the pileated woodpecker call?
A: Pileated woodpeckers are active throughout the day, but they tend to be most vocal in the early morning and late afternoon. Spring and summer are also good times to listen for their calls, as they are breeding during this time.
Answers to questions about distinguishing between similar woodpecker calls
Q: How can I tell the difference between the pileated woodpecker call and the Northern flicker call?
A: The Northern flicker call is a series of high-pitched, descending notes, while the pileated woodpecker call is a louder, more ringing call. The Northern flicker call also has a faster rhythm than the pileated woodpecker call.
Q: What distinguishes the pileated woodpecker call from the red-bellied woodpecker call?
A: The red-bellied woodpecker call is a high-pitched, rolling call that sounds like “churr-churr-churr”. The pileated woodpecker call is much louder and has a slower rhythm. The pileated woodpecker call also has a more distinctive sound, with a ringing quality that sets it apart from other woodpecker calls.
Q: Can I use visual cues to identify the pileated woodpecker call?
A: While visual cues can be helpful for identifying birds, the pileated woodpecker call is distinctive enough that it can be identified by sound alone. However, if you do see a pileated woodpecker, its large size, black and white plumage, and distinctive crest can help confirm your identification.
Conclusion
In conclusion, understanding and identifying the pileated woodpecker call can be a rewarding experience for birders and nature enthusiasts. By familiarizing yourself with the characteristics of the call and practicing identification techniques, you can become more confident in your ability to distinguish between different bird species. The pileated woodpecker is an impressive bird, and its call is just as awe-inspiring.
Remember to follow the E-A-T principles when learning about bird calls and identification. Look for authoritative sources and seek out expert advice if needed. With time and effort, you can become a skilled bird identifier and connect with nature on a deeper level.
At Critter Kingdom, we’re passionate about all things nature-related, from bird identification to dog breeds and more. We hope this guide has been helpful in your pursuit of understanding and identifying the pileated woodpecker call. Happy birding!