Read about the slideshow at Merle's Outdoor Recreation Articles on Examiner.com Last winter, I saw a pileated near Sweathouse Creek where I cross and begin one of my hikes. This summer, I have continually seen 3 Pileated Woodpeckers and as time goes on they are becoming more familiar with me and giving me time to take photos. That is amazing to me especially because I have my Chesapeake puppy with me most of the time. I know when I will see them because I hear their loud, ringing calls as I approach the creek crossing. The Pileated Woodpecker lives throughout North America and as the third largest woodpecker, it is slightly smaller than the American Crow. The feathers appear to be black, has a long tail used as a brace when chiseling and sports the characteristic red crest. They live in both coniferous and decidous forests living year round (they don't migrate) in large, dead trees called snags. Pileated Woodpeckers are monogamous, staying with the same mate for life. For more interesting facts visit my source of information Pileated Woodpecker Central.com.