Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery Info

The Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery Program was established in 2007 as a group within the Minneapolis Audubon chapter. We meet from January through October, usually on the third Wednesday of the month, at 7:00 p.m. at Lunds Grocery in Edina (second floor above the coffee shop).

Our initial focus is red-head recovery in Minnesota and the upper midwest. But we are happy to serve as a focal point for red-head recovery; until we get overwhelmed!

Our Goal

The goal of Red-headed Woodpecker Recovery is to reverse the decline and encourage the recovery of Red-headed Woodpecker populations througH the creation, preservation, and restoration of habitat, and with research, and public education.

Our Objectives

  1. Identify the specific habitat needs and evidence of the decline of the Red-headed Woodpecker (RHWO)
    1. Research habitat preferences/needs
    2. Gather evidence of species decline
    3. Identify state & national RHWO experts
  2. Locate RHWO clusters (three or more pairs within 1/4 mi. radius) in Minnesota
    1. Visit and document cluster existence
    2. Document and photograph cluster habitat and nest sites
  3. Encourage the preservation and restoration of existing RHWO cluster habitat
    1. Develop Best Management Practices (BMPs)
    2. Distribute BMPs to appropriate landowners, golf course superintendents, nature centers, etc.
    3. Create an attractive 'appreciation certificate' for landowners, golf courses, nature centers, etc.
  4. Encourage the creation of new oak savannah and other habitats conducive to nesting RHWO populations
    1. Work with state and national groups concerned with RHWO recovery
    2. Contact Audubon, Nature Conservancy, NWR, DNR, SNA, DNR Non-Game, etc.
  5. Experiment with the creation and placement of nest boxes in appropriate areas to encourage RHWO nesting efforts.
    1. Design an appropriate nest box for RHWO
    2. Place and monitor boxes in a few select cluster areas
  6. Raise public awareness of the plight of the RHWO
    1. "Paper Session" at MN Ornithological Union
    2. Encourage newspaper/newsletter articles and other media attention
    3. Create an attractive patch or pin to be worn by birders

Contact Us

Adminstrative Info - Members only