Giant, “Woody Woodpecker” of forests. Common in the East, southern Canada and the West Coast. Very large, black, with white facial stripes and flaming red crest; white underwings in flight. Loud drumming may be heard at a great distance. Prefers mature forests with rotten wood where it excavates distinct, rectangular holes up to 12 inches long to feed on insects, especially ants; may also be seen in partially wooded areas in the East. May come to feeders for suet and seed; also eats fruit. Monogamous; excavate oval-shaped nest hole in large dead trees. Lifespan up to 12 years. Population ~ 1.9 million and probably increasing.