Acorn Woodpecker vs Golden-fronted Woodpecker
Melanerpes formicivorus versus Melanerpes aurifrons
Play a quiz with Acorn Woodpecker and Golden-fronted Woodpecker
Acorn Woodpecker
Golden-fronted Woodpecker
In short
The Acorn Woodpecker and Golden-fronted Woodpecker can be distinguished by their head markings and behavior. The Acorn Woodpecker has a distinctive clown-like face with a white forehead and black eye patches, while the Golden-fronted Woodpecker has a more uniform head with a golden or orange patch on the forehead. Behaviorally, Acorn Woodpeckers are known for their communal acorn storage habits, unlike the Golden-fronted Woodpecker.
Identification tips
Look for the Acorn Woodpecker's clown-like face with black eye patches and red cap. The Golden-fronted Woodpecker's head is more uniform with a golden or orange patch on the forehead. Observe behavior: Acorn Woodpeckers store acorns communally, while Golden-fronted Woodpeckers do not.
Plumage
Acorn Woodpeckers have a striking black and white face with a red cap, white forehead, and black eye patches. In contrast, Golden-fronted Woodpeckers have a more uniform head with a golden or orange forehead patch and lack the distinctive black eye patches.
Behaviour
Acorn Woodpeckers are known for storing acorns in communal granaries, a behavior not observed in Golden-fronted Woodpeckers. Golden-fronted Woodpeckers are more likely to be seen gleaning or probing for food.
Acorn Woodpecker · Golden-fronted Woodpecker · My Tricky Birds