Red-bellied Woodpecker Calls (3 Sounds (w/ AUDIO)

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 and sounds and drumming

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.


Watch the short video below to hear more examples of Red-bellied Woodpecker calls, sounds, and noises.

YouTube video

Have you heard the calls and sounds of a Red-bellied Woodpecker before?

If so, please let us know below!

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3 Comments

  1. Had an honest to goodness Red Headed Woodpecker visit the suet this afternoon! BRILLIANT Red full front to nape of neck head cover.
    The black back was glistening in the afternoon sun.
    I had just replenished the suet block about a half hour earlier.
    Also we hv mother and fledgling downey woodpeckers lined up out there. They roost on the feeder’s roof and mother reaches up a beakful of suet to their waiting mouth. Fascinating time of year at our feeders.
    Our Mockingbird is bk afeter a few months invisibility…
    No sign of Catbird’s return however… Lane in Columbsus, Ohio…

  2. We Have A Mated Pair Here In Clinton Twp/Columbus, Ohio.
    We Feed Suet And Peanut Butter Outside Our Kitchen Window.
    Suet Is The More Favored. Wonderful To View These Beauties.
    The Neighbor’s Rain Gutters Are Favored For Daily Thrumming.
    Several Dead Trees In The Area.
    Happy Birding! Lane es Gayle In Columbus, Ohio