Dryocopus pileatus, commonly known as the Pileated Woodpecker, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans across the eastern United States, Canada, and along the western coast into parts of the Pacific Northwest. Specific regions include broad-leaved forests in the eastern United States, coniferous forests in the Rocky Mountains, and coastal rainforests in British Columbia.

The Pileated Woodpecker primarily inhabits mature forested areas with a preference for deciduous and mixed woodlands containing large, old trees for nesting and feeding. These forests provide the essential dead or dying trees (snags) which are crucial for nesting and hunting grounds. The climate in these habitats can range from temperate to cold, depending on the specific region, with adequate precipitation to support dense forest growth.

As a primary cavity nester, the Pileated Woodpecker plays a vital role in its ecosystem by creating nesting and roosting cavities that are subsequently used by various secondary cavity-nesting birds and other wildlife. It feeds mainly on insects, especially carpenter ants and wood-boring beetle larvae, but also consumes fruits and nuts. Its foraging behavior involves excavating deep into tree bark and wood to reach insect larvae, an activity that also helps control forest pest populations.