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Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker (Leuconotopicus villosus) is a medium-sized woodpecker common across North America. Known for its striking black and white plumage and bold red patch on the male's head, it plays a vital ecological role in controlling forest insect populations. It is often confused with the smaller Downy Woodpecker, but the Hairy Woodpecker is distinguished by its larger size and longer bill. Its presence is often a sign of a healthy, mature forest ecosystem.
18-26 cm
Length
33-43 cm
Wingspan
Least Concern
Conservation Status
Distribution
Found throughout North America, from Alaska and Canada south to Panama. It has a broad altitudinal range, inhabiting forests from sea level to high-elevation mountain ranges.
Lifespan
Up to 15 years in the wild, but typically shorter.
Hairy Woodpecker's Habitat
Habitat Types
Mature forests, Woodlands, Parks, Suburban areas with mature trees
Climate Zones
Temperate, Boreal, Subtropical, Tropical (at higher elevations)
Adaptations
Strong, chisel-like bill for excavating wood; stiff tail feathers for support while climbing; long, barbed tongue for extracting insects.
Variations
Numerous subspecies exist, showing variations in size, plumage darkness, and bill length, reflecting adaptation to local environments.
Appearance
Breeding Plumage
No significant seasonal variation.
Seasonal Feather Changes
No significant seasonal variation.
Sex Based Plumage Differences
Males have a red patch on the nape (back of the head); females lack this red patch.
Notable Features
Black and white striped back, White underparts, Large white patches on wings, Long, chisel-like bill
Diet and Feeding
Primary Foods
Wood-boring insects, Beetle larvae, Ants, Caterpillars, Spiders, Seeds, Nuts, Fruits, Sap
Foraging Behavior
Forages primarily on tree trunks and branches, excavating wood to reach insects. Also gleans insects from the surface and occasionally visits bird feeders.
Specializations
Strong skull and neck muscles for powerful pecking; long, sticky, barbed tongue for extracting insects from crevices.
Seasonal Diet Variations
Diet shifts slightly with seasonal availability; consumes more seeds and fruits in winter when insects are less abundant.
Behavior
Social Structure
Generally solitary or found in pairs, except during breeding season. Not known for forming large flocks.
Communication
Sharp 'peek' call, Rattling call, Drumming on wood (territorial and courtship)
Migration
Mostly non-migratory, but some northern populations may move short distances south in winter.
Territorial or Group Behaviors
Territorial during breeding season, defending nesting and feeding areas. Males are particularly aggressive in defending territories.
Conservation
Threats
Habitat loss (deforestation), Loss of mature forests, Pesticide use (reducing insect prey)
Protection Programs
Forest management practices that preserve snags (dead trees), Habitat restoration efforts
Local National Laws
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act in the United States.
Population Trend
Stable
Population Estimates
Global population estimated at 8.9 million (Partners in Flight).
Interesting Facts
They can excavate deep into wood to find insects.
Their strong bills and neck muscles allow them to create cavities much deeper than those of smaller woodpeckers.
They sometimes follow Pileated Woodpeckers.
They take advantage of the larger woodpecker's excavations to find insects they might have missed.
The drumming sound is used for communication.
Both males and females drum to establish territories and attract mates.
Faqs about Hairy Woodpecker
How can I tell a Hairy Woodpecker from a Downy Woodpecker?
Hairy Woodpeckers are larger and have a longer bill relative to their head size. The outer tail feathers of Hairy Woodpeckers are typically all white, while Downy Woodpeckers have black spots or bars on their outer tail feathers.
Do Hairy Woodpeckers visit bird feeders?
Yes, they are attracted to suet feeders, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.
What should I do if I find a woodpecker nest?
Observe from a distance and avoid disturbing the nest. Woodpeckers are sensitive to disturbance during nesting.
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