RCW Facts

The red-cockaded woodpecker (Picoides borealis), federally protected as an endangered species since 1970, is listed as a “species of special concern” in Florida.

Florida hosts approximately 25 percent of the nation’s red-cockaded woodpecker population, with an estimated 1,100 active family groups. Many of Florida’s populations are carefully managed on public lands, the largest of which are Apalachicola National Forest and Eglin Air Force Base. FWC estimates 55-85 active groups reside on private lands, with the largest concentrations in the south-central and southern portions of the state.

Red-cockaded woodpeckers are found throughout Florida.

• RCW Safe Harbor
• Habitat and Compatible Land Use
• Stewardship
• Management Agreements
• Red-Cockaded Woodpecker Facts
• RCW FAQs
• Safe Harbor FAQs

The FWC developed a statewide conservation management plan for red-cockaded woodpeckers in 2003. Florida’s Safe Harbor Program is an important component of that plan.