Watercolor portrait of Gila Woodpecker (Melanerpes uropygialis)

Gila Woodpecker

Melanerpes uropygialis
A year-round resident of the Sonoran Des… Found in hot desert scrub, washes, thorn… Common Rolling churr

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

“churr-churr-churr!”

What the Gila Woodpecker sounds like

A sandy-faced woodpecker of the Sonoran Desert, often clinging to a saguaro like it owns the place. Its black-and-white barred back flashes in the sun, and males add a neat red cap on top.

“churr-churr-churr!”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A rough, rolling burst that sounds dry and scratchy, almost like a little toy ratchet. It often carries across a wash or cactus garden. Often written as “churr-churr-churr!”.
Don't confuse with:The Ladder-backed Woodpecker — smaller and slimmer overall.

Where you'll hear it

Found in hot desert scrub, washes, thorny woodlands, and neighborhoods with big cacti or scattered trees. It is especially tied to saguaros and other tall desert plants that offer nesting spots.

Active in every season, but spring is the easiest time to notice them calling and excavating nest holes in saguaros. In summer they gather around ripe cactus fruit, and in winter they often visit feeders and desert yards.

Similar species

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

Smaller and slimmer overall.

Gilded Flicker

Much larger, with a longer bill and more flicker-like shape.

Red-bellied Woodpecker

Has a mostly plain pale back rather than bold zebra barring.

Gila Woodpecker sound FAQ

What does a Gila Woodpecker sound like?
A rough, rolling burst that sounds dry and scratchy, almost like a little toy ratchet. It often carries across a wash or cactus garden. Listen for the "churr-churr-churr!" phrase.
How do I tell a Gila Woodpecker from a Ladder-backed Woodpecker by sound?
Ladder-backed Woodpecker: Smaller and slimmer overall.; Face looks black-and-white, not warm tan or buff.; Back barring is finer, and males show a red crown patch without the same sandy-faced look..
When is the best time to hear a Gila Woodpecker?
Active in every season, but spring is the easiest time to notice them calling and excavating nest holes in saguaros. In summer they gather around ripe cactus fruit, and in winter they often visit feeders and desert yards.