Pileated Woodpecker

The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in North America (excluding the likely extinct Ivory-billed). It is nearly the size of a crow, characterized by a flaming red crest, black body, and white neck stripes. This primary feather shows the dramatic contrast that makes the bird look like it is 'flashing' white light when it flies.

Striking bicolored pattern: the distal two-thirds of the feather are a solid, deep matte black (melanic), while the basal third features a clean, bright white patch. This creates the 'white underwing flash' seen in flight.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs designed for powerful, undulating flight. The barbs are stiff and robust to withstand the physical stress of drumming and maneuvering through forests.

The rachis is thick, sturdy, and dark black in the pigmented portion, transitioning to a translucent or white color in the basal section. Barbs are tightly packed and angled acutely.

The surface is matte and slightly stiff. It lacks the oily sheen of waterfowl but is very durable. The trailing edge is smooth, while the leading edge shows aerobic shaping (notch).

Wing; specifically an outer primary feather. The strong asymmetry and curved rachis are characteristic of the outermost wing feathers used for lift and thrust.

Bicolored black/white primary with a distinct notch; large size (7+ inches) unique among North American woodpeckers; stiff, thick rachis.

Mature deciduous and coniferous forests, often with large standing dead trees (snags) for nesting and foraging. Frequently found in mixed woodlands across Maine.

Year-round resident across much of Canada and the eastern and western United States. Non-migratory but may venture into suburban areas with mature trees.

Primary cavity nester and keystone species; they control carpenter ant populations and provide housing for numerous other forest animals.

Common Raven feathers are similar in size/color but lack the stark white basal patch. Northern Flicker (Yellow-shafted) feathers have yellow shafts and distinct spotting/crescents, not solid bicoloration.

The excavations made by these birds are so large (rectangular holes) that they create vital nesting cavities for other species like Wood Ducks and Screech Owls. Their tongue can extend far beyond their beak to reach ants inside trees.

Woodpecker feathers were occasionally used in indigenous ornamentation. In modern times, they are subjects of strict federal protection and are popular for scientific study due to their impact-resistant anatomy.

Look for these beneath large dead trees or 'feeding snags' where fresh wood chips are scattered. Their flight is heavy and undulating, often accompanied by a loud, wild 'laughing' call.

Fair to Good. There is significant 'zipper' separation (unzipped barbs) along the trailing edge, likely from impact with the ground or wind. No obvious parasitic damage visible.

Holden ME