Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), San Pedro River, Pinal County

This Red-breasted Sapsucker was discovered and photographed by Chris McCreedy on 30 December 2011.

Generally found on the Pacific Slope and Sierra Nevada, though will occasionally winter in southern Arizona. Most Arizona sightings have been recorded in the Santa Cruz River watershed, and there are only a handful of Pinal County records.

Red through chin and continuing through throat to upper chest. No black border to red breast.  Lacking white stripe from culmen under cheek and through to belly that is found on Red-naped Sapsuckers. Mostly red head, red on nape continuous, unlike Red-naped Sapsuckers.

30 December 2011, photo by Chris McCreedy