One of the best spots to find Red headed Woodpeckers is along the American Tobacco Trail in New Hill, N.C. With that cherry red head and that deep black plumage, these striking birds are one of my favorite species of woodpeckers. Check out the video above to see some highlights from my trip there earlier this week.

The Red-headed Woodpecker is a fiercely protective , vibrant bird that can be found over a large portion of the swamps, grasslands, and clearings throughout the United States. With a bright-red head, white underparts, and black backs, these feathered gems are easily identifiable whether they are deep in a forest or hanging out on trees coming up from the water.

These nomadic birds prefer to differ their breeding location year-after-year. However, even when not in breeding season, Red-headed Woodpeckers can be found nesting in dead trees and cavities in dead parts of living trees. Although both partners build a nest, the male woodpecker is the dominant craftsman. Speaking of mates, Red-headed Woodpeckers prefer to play “hide and seek” with potential partners as they dart around stumps, branches, and trees: once a mate is chosen, woodpeckers remain monogamous for a few consecutive years.

There are also a few other interesting birds to be found along the American Tobacco Trail such as Green Herons, Mourning Doves, American Goldfinches, Northern Flickers, Red winged Blackbirds and Yellow billed Cuckoos.

If you plan to visit the area, it’s best to arrive early as this trail can get very crowded with joggers and bikers after 9am. I’ve also got a trip planned for next month so if you’d like to come with me to see the Red-headed Woodpecker (and other cool birds) check out the link below!