This is part of a bird oriented series that concentrates on species that occur in the central part of the state at least for part of the year (primarily during nesting season).
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker (Picoides borealis) is an endangered species found exclusively in mature pines. This species is currently highly managed with well-marked colonies of family members. Since it takes from 3-5 years to construct a nesting cavity in a live tree, biologists have constructed nest boxes that are placed in suitable trees and marked to resemble sap until the wells are constructed to protect nest from predators such as ratsnakes or flying squirrels. Prescribed burning is a common practice that reduces hardwood growth in piney woods and is beneficial to management of this and other species.
It is named for the tiny patch of red feathers on the side of head that are rarely seen. Females lack these red feathers.
A self-check permit kiosk is located less than half a mile from cache.