It is also particularly sensitive to intensive lumber harvest. It is important because of its role in creating cavities that will later be used by other birds and mammals and in insect control. It is almost entirely black throughout its back and wings. It is the white chin and dark bill that distinguishes the Pileated Woodpecker from the rare Ivory-billed woodpecker. The distinctive red crest of the Pileated Woodpecker is not as extensive in the female as in the male.
Females actually have a black forehead.
Some excellent views of the distinctive red crest and striping. The Pileated Woodpecker is found throughout most of the Eastern United States. It is most common, though, in the Southeast. It is not found in agricultural areas and it is a year-round inhabitant of it area. Drumming is done by unmated males to advertise for a female or another part of courtship displays.