Red-headed Woodpecker 1 1 7 



Red-headed Woodpecker. — Melanerpes erythrocephalus. 



9.75 



Very Rare Summer Resident 



Field marks. — Entire head and upper breast deep crimson; 

 upper back, wings, and tail dark bluish-gray; band on 

 wings, rump, and belly white. 



The brilliant hues and noble proportions of this bird, the 

 most striking of its family, should serve to identify it instantly 

 even to the most casual observer. Unfortunately, opportunities 

 for observing it in this section of the State are very few and 

 far between, as long ago it receded into the wilder portions 

 of northern New York and upper New England where 

 natural enemies are not so abundant. I had believed until 

 recently that not an individual would be found in this 

 County, but my friend, Mr. Gardner C. Leonard, has happily 

 informed me that a pair had their nest near his country home 

 in Altamont during the Summer of 1907. The birds were 

 unmolested and reared their brood in safety. Doubtless 

 other pairs will be found in the strictly rural parts of the 

 County. Anyone found disturbing these beautiful birds should 

 be immediately punished to the fullest extent of the law. Red- 

 heads are said to winter occasionally in this State. 



From four to six white eggs are laid in a hollow tree. 



