Cavity trees of this species always have a cavity entrance in which the edges of the hole are thickly coated with pine sap or resin. The home range of each family group includes a cluster of cavity trees. They inhabit old pine forests with open understory maintained by frequent, natural lightening fires. Suitable habitat is very specific for these birds. Parents and helpers feed the nestlings, which fledge 26-29 days after hatching. Incubation lasts 10 days and is performed by the parents and sometimes by helpers. The breeding female lays 2-5 (average, 3) glossy white eggs. The nest is built in the breeding male's roost cavity, typically excavated 10-13 m ( 30-40 ft) above ground in pines that are very old (usually more than 80 years). Favored habitat is open, mature pine forest. Breeding season lasts from mid-April to late July. The breeding pair is often accompanied by offspring from a previous year, known as 'helpers,' which assist their parents in many nesting activities. The birds live as family groups of 2 - 5 individuals. The Red-cockaded Woodpecker has an uncommon social system known as cooperative breeding. These are small woodpeckers, 22 cm (8.5 in) from beak tip to tail tip. Males have a small red tuft behind the eye which is difficult to see. Belly and breast white, with black spots on the outer breast. Back and wings with a black and white ladder pattern.

Downy woodpecker range map