A large, social woodpecker with a unique color pattern. Dark glossy-green above with a gray collar, dark red face, and pink wash on the belly. Sexes alike; juveniles are duller and browner than adults. Looks all dark at a distance, with a crowlike flight style. Found in open woodlands, sometimes close to human settlements. Often uses telephone poles to stash acorns; also sallies out from a conspicuous perch to catch insects.