SE Arizona – Wings over Sky Islands Blog Post #2

With perhaps the greatest biological diversity in the entire US, many seasoned birders believe Southeast Arizona to be the top birding destination. Habitats range from the Desert Scrub at lower elevations to Riparian Oases and pine forests of the dramatic “sky islands.” The intent of this blog is for followers to learn about the natural history of these interesting winged creatures.
Reflections of the Natural World Blog Post Series by Jim Gain

Male @ Cave Creek Ranch

WHAT’S IN A NAME

Arizona Woodpecker – Dryobates arizonae
Name roots: Gr. druos tree; batēs walker; of Arizona

PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS

The Arizona Woodpecker is a medium-sized montane woodpecker, and the only North American Dryobates that is brown and white rather than black and white. The Arizona Woodpecker is found in mid-elevation pine–oak (Pinus–Quercus) woodland.

Sexes are alike, but the male has small red patch on the top of the head that is lacking in female.


EBIRD BAR CHART & DISTRIBUTION MAP FOR COCHISE COUNTY

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ABOUT ME

Through my lens and prose I hope to instill a greater sense of awe, compassion and inspiration as I discover new creatures, explore interesting habitats, and gain wisdom about the natural world that’s all around us. It is my hope that readers are motivated to learn more about our environment and its inhabitants, and become passionate advocates for conservation.

I earned my college degree in biology, a foundation that shaped not only how I see the world, but how I’ve spent my life sharing it with others. For more than 35 years, I worked in education as both a teacher and administrator, guiding students through the wonders of science and the joy of discovery. That same spirit of curiosity has carried me through decades of volunteer work in citizen science and conservation. This blog brings together my passions for birding, conservation, and storytelling.

~ Jim Gain