Watercolor portrait of Acorn Woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorus)

Acorn Woodpecker

Melanerpes formicivorus
A year-round resident from the western U… Look in oak woodlands, oak-pine foothill… Common Waka-waka chorus

Learn to identify the Acorn Woodpecker by ear. Master the "waka-waka-waka!" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“waka-waka-waka!”

What the Acorn Woodpecker sounds like

This is the woodpecker with the clown face and the attitude to match. In oak country, Acorn Woodpeckers flash black, white, and red, stare with pale eyes, and bounce around in noisy family gangs.

“waka-waka-waka!”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A loud, nasal chorus tossed back and forth by the whole group. It sounds rowdy and playful, like the woods have suddenly started laughing. Often written as “waka-waka-waka!”.
Don't confuse with:The Lewis's Woodpecker — lacks the clown face: no white forehead, white cheeks, or black chin pattern.

Where you'll hear it

Look in oak woodlands, oak-pine foothills, canyon groves, and town parks with mature oaks. They stick close to places with good acorn crops, dead snags, and sturdy trees for nest cavities.

Active in every season and rarely quiet for long. Fall is peak granary time, while spring and early summer bring courtship, nesting, and nonstop food runs to hungry chicks.

Similar species

Lewis's Woodpecker

Lacks the clown face: no white forehead, white cheeks, or black chin pattern.

Red-breasted Sapsucker

Shows red over much of the head and breast, not a white forehead with a red cap.

Nuttall's Woodpecker

Much smaller, with a zebra-barred back and a more delicate look.

Acorn Woodpecker sound FAQ

What does an Acorn Woodpecker sound like?
A loud, nasal chorus tossed back and forth by the whole group. It sounds rowdy and playful, like the woods have suddenly started laughing. Listen for the "waka-waka-waka!" phrase.
How do I tell an Acorn Woodpecker from a Lewis's Woodpecker by sound?
Lewis's Woodpecker: Lacks the clown face: no white forehead, white cheeks, or black chin pattern.; Has a dark greenish back and pink belly instead of a black breast with white-streaked flanks.; Flies with slower, more crow-like wingbeats rather than quick, bouncy woodpecker flights..
When is the best time to hear an Acorn Woodpecker?
Active in every season and rarely quiet for long. Fall is peak granary time, while spring and early summer bring courtship, nesting, and nonstop food runs to hungry chicks.