Gila woodpecker

[ MELANERPES UROPYGIALIS ]

It’s something of a surprise to find woodpeckers in the wide-open spaces of California’s arid southeastern corner; after all, not many trees grow there. But the Gila woodpecker uses the next best thing — the giant saguaro cactus — as a place to perch and dig its nesting cavities. Although it’s easy to excavate holes in cactus flesh, it’s very messy. The birds get smeared in slimy goo. Once completed, however, the cavity heals with thick scar tissue that is extremely hard and impervious to microbial infection — a perfect place for woodpeckers and other birds to lay eggs. Woodpeckers return the favor to the cactus by eating its fruits and dispersing seeds to new locations.

NATURAL HISTORY

With saguaro cactus and native streamside woodlands nearly extirpated along California’s stretch of the Colorado River, this formerly common and wide-ranging bird has declined in number to about 100 pairs statewide. Many build their nests in trees planted around cities and homes.

KEY CHARACTERISTICS

The robin-size birds are brilliantly striped like zebras over their wings and backs; their bodies are grayish-tan.