Gila Woodpecker (Melanerpes uropygialis) is in the Woodpeckers family (Picidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 9,799 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in April.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: year-round resident. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph Gila Woodpecker: observations by month (U.S.)
About Gila Woodpecker
The Gila woodpecker (Melanerpes uropygialis) is a medium-sized woodpecker of the desert regions of the southwestern United States and western Mexico. In the U.S., they range through southeastern California, southern Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
Gila Woodpecker by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arizona | 9,649 | April | Nov–Sep |
| California | 131 | January | Sep–Jul |
| New Mexico | 19 | May | Apr–May |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related birds (Woodpeckers)
Downy Woodpecker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Pileated Woodpecker
Acorn Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Hairy Woodpecker
Red-headed Woodpecker
Photography tips
- Use a fast shutter (1/2000 s or faster) for birds in flight.
- Focus on the eye and shoot at the bird's eye level.
- Approach slowly and stop if the bird changes behavior; never bait or flush birds.
- Morning activity peaks in the first two hours after sunrise.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph Gila Woodpecker?
Nationally, April has the most observations, with the main season from November to September.
Where is Gila Woodpecker most often seen?
The most observations come from Arizona, California, New Mexico.