red-headed woodpecker: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

Not exactly. 'Red-headed woodpecker' is the proper common name for the species Melanerpes erythrocephalus. Other woodpecker species may also have red on their heads, so a 'woodpecker with a red head' could be a different species, like a red-bellied or pileated woodpecker.

They are found primarily in eastern and central North America, in open woodlands, farms, and areas with dead trees (snags). They are less common in dense, unbroken forests.

It plays a role in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations, dispersing seeds, and creating nesting cavities later used by other species. Its population trends are watched by scientists as an indicator of forest habitat quality.

Yes, when used as a compound adjective before the noun 'woodpecker', it is standard to hyphenate it: 'red-headed woodpecker'. This clarifies that 'red-headed' is a single unit modifying 'woodpecker'.

A species of North American woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) distinguished by its bright red head, neck, and throat.

Red-headed woodpecker is usually technical/formal in register.

Red-headed woodpecker: in British English it is pronounced /ˌredˌhedɪd ˈwʊdpekə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌrɛdˌhɛdəd ˈwʊdpɛkɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.