Lewis' Woodpecker

Melanerpes lewis

Lewis' woodpecker is not difficult to distinguish from other woodpeckers, owing to its black back, wings and tail and its pinkish underparts and ruby-pink face patch. In fact, its colouring, large size and slow flight make it more likely to be mistaken for a crow. This woodpecker spends its summer in the montane cordillera, and some of its species can be found on the B.C. coast. Also unlike other woodpeckers, Lewis' woodpeckers may form large flocks in winter. It catches insects in mid flight, and also stores acorns in tree bark crevices.