Species Profile
Hairy Woodpecker
Leuconotopicus villosus
Hairy Woodpecker
Quick Facts
Conservation
LCLeast ConcernLifespan
4–11 years
Length
18–26 cm
Weight
40–95 g
Wingspan
33–41 cm
Migration
Resident
Also known as: Hairy
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Appearance
The Hairy Woodpecker is a striking black and white bird with a long, chisel-like bill. Its back is black with a broad white stripe down the center, while its underparts are white. The wings display white spots, creating a checkered pattern when folded.
Males have a small red patch on the back of the head, which females lack. Juveniles resemble adults but may have a red or yellowish crown patch and appear duller overall. The bird's plumage remains consistent year-round.
Identification & Characteristics
Male Colors
- Primary
- Black
- Secondary
- Red
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Grey
Female Colors
- Primary
- Black
- Beak
- Grey
- Legs
- Grey
Female Markings
Lacks red patch on back of head
Attributes
Understanding Attributes
Rated 0–100 based on research and observation. A score of 50 is average across all bird species. These attributes are relative and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Habitat & Distribution
Hairy Woodpeckers inhabit mature deciduous and mixed forests across North America, from Alaska to Florida. They are also found in wooded urban areas, parks, and orchards. These birds are year-round residents throughout most of their range.
They are widely distributed in the United States and Canada, adapting well to various woodland habitats. Their presence extends from sea level to high-elevation mountain forests, showcasing their adaptability to diverse environments.
Distribution
Diet
Hairy Woodpeckers primarily feed on wood-boring insects, particularly beetle larvae, which they extract from tree bark using their strong bills. They also consume ants, caterpillars, and spiders.
In winter, they supplement their diet with nuts, seeds, and berries and readily visit suet feeders in residential areas.
Behaviour
Hairy Woodpeckers are known for their energetic foraging behavior, often seen hitching up tree trunks and along branches in search of insects. They are generally solitary but may form loose flocks in winter.
These birds are territorial during breeding season, with males performing drumming displays to establish boundaries and attract mates.
Calls & Sounds
The Hairy Woodpecker's most common call is a sharp, loud 'peek' or 'peenk', often repeated in a series. During the breeding season, they produce a rattling or whinny-like call.
Their drumming is loud and rapid, lasting about a second, and is used for communication and foraging. They drum a rapid burst of about 25 taps in a single second but then pause for about 20 seconds before repeating.
Nesting & Breeding
Hairy Woodpeckers form monogamous pairs during the breeding season, which typically begins in late spring. Males initiate courtship with drumming displays and vocalizations to attract females.
Both sexes work together to excavate a nesting cavity in a dead tree or large branch, usually 5-21 meters above the ground. The female lays 3-6 white eggs in the unlined cavity.
Incubation lasts about 11-12 days, with both parents sharing duties. Nestlings fledge after 28-30 days but may continue to be fed by parents for several weeks after leaving the nest.
Conservation
While the Hairy Woodpecker is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces challenges from habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development. Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature forests and promoting the retention of dead trees, which are crucial for nesting and foraging.
Birdwatching Tips
- Listen for their sharp 'peek' call or rapid drumming on trees
- Look for them on tree trunks and large branches in mature forests
- Observe their distinctive black and white plumage pattern
- Check backyard suet feeders, especially in winter
- Compare size to the similar but smaller Downy Woodpecker
Did You Know?
- Hairy Woodpeckers can drill holes up to 1 inch deep to access insect larvae.
- They have bristle-like feathers over their nostrils to prevent inhalation of wood chips while drilling.
- These woodpeckers sometimes follow Pileated Woodpeckers to scavenge insects from their larger excavations.
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