Gila Woodpecker

Scientific name: Melanerpes uropygialis

Although a Gila Woodpecker perched on a saguaro cactus is a familiar sight in Arizona, this species has a wider range than the saguaro. Large trees can also be excavated for Gila Woodpecker nest cavities.

Gila Woodpeckers are known to be very aggressive when defending their territories. Decoy woodpeckers are readily attacked, and males are generally more aggressive than females.

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