Male downy woodpecker
The plumage color combination of red, black and white is most commonly found on many species of woodpeckers. With more than 200 species worldwide, it is the most likely bird that you will spot bearing these colors. Female woodpeckers of certain species are less brilliant than their male counterparts, devoid of the red markings. Examples include downy woodpeckers (Picoides pubescens) and hairy woodpeckers (Picoides villosus).
King of the Clan
The red stripe below the eye is distinct to the male of this species.
Pileated woodpeckers (Dryocopus pileatus) are very large members of the species and can reach a body length of 18 inches. The call of this bird is reminiscent of laughter and louder than other woodpeckers. The impressive size of this bird contributes to the volume of its voice. Whether in flight or perched, this animal is an impressive spectacle at close range. The female of this species does bear red plumage but lacks some red marks that the male displays.
Additional Avians
Female rose-breasted grosbeak
Another example of a species bearing red, white and black feathers is the male rose-breasted grosbeak (Pheucticus ludovicianus). His bright red bib contrasts sharply against his white breast and black head. The female counterpart is dusty brown and white in color and easily overlooked by the casual observer. Declining populations and narrower nesting grounds make a sighting of this bird more rare than one of woodpeckers.
Identification Tools
Other markings and characteristics are used to identify different species and subspecies besides plumage. The shape and color of the beak, eyes and feet are helpful in differentiating bird types. Behavior exhibited and location are also strong clues for bird watchers. The Common loon (Gavia immer) has white and black plumage and a large eye that appears red under most light conditions.
Bird Watching
Common redpolls and rufous-sided towhees also display all three colors. A broader, global focus to include beaks, eyes and feet will reveal more red, white and black avians. For example, the scarlet tanager has red and black feathers but a light-colored beak and feet. The exotic ibis has a red beak and feet, and white plumage with black tips on its wings.
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