Common and very conspicuous in the west. Seen in oak woods, pine-oak woodlands where oak trees are common, parks, towns. During summer eats mostly insects. Requires acorns and storage trees. 1, rarely 2 broods.
Mating system is cooperative.
Usually deciduous snag, especially oak, also poles 20 to 25 feet above the ground. Lined with chips. Both sexes help with nest construction. Both sexes incubate. Incubation takes 11-12 days.