Below, you will learn the 3 most common calls that a Red-bellied Woodpecker makes, including what it sounds like when they drum against a tree! Make sure to press PLAY on the audio files below. 🙂

Red-bellied Woodpecker Calls:

Sound #1: “Churr”

The most common call that Red-bellied Woodpeckers make is a rolling “churr.” This sound can be heard by both sexes at any time of the year.

Sound #2: The contact call

The next sound is a contact call that is usually given between mates. It can be heard as a single “che” note. Or the contact calls can be strung together as a harsh, coughing “cha-cha-cha.”

Sound #3: Drumming

You can even identify a Red-bellied Woodpecker by the way they drum on trees! Listen for a short burst of drumming, which lasts about one second. In that one second, they typically drum about 19 times. Drumming is primarily used by males to attract mates or to communicate with their partner.