Nuttall’s Woodpecker

Melodious, canopy-dwelling, and strikingly plumaged.  Often heard in the spring in Eastern parks and backyards; or high in deciduous trees in open woodlands and edges.  Medium-sized songbird, ranging from yellow-orange to a brilliant deep orange, with gray or black heads and backs, wing bars, and long curved bills.   Acrobatic feeders that prefer fruit, flowers and insects; may be attracted to feeders with cut oranges and bananas.  Sock-like hanging nest is woven over a period of week or two by the female, often in an American Elm, maple, or cottonwood tree.  Lifespan up to 12 years.  Population ~ 12 million and declining.