Leuconotopicus villosus, commonly known as the Hairy Woodpecker, is a medium-sized bird found in forests across North America. It is characterized by its striking black and white plumage, a long chisel-like bill, and a distinctive red patch on the back of the male's head. The species is known for its powerful drumming on trees and plays a crucial role in controlling insect populations.

Leuconotopicus villosus, commonly known as the Hairy Woodpecker, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans a wide range across the continent, including regions in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and parts of Central America. It is found in a variety of forested areas from Alaska and northern Canada south through the United States and into Central America as far as Panama.

The Hairy Woodpecker inhabits primarily mature deciduous and mixed woodlands, but it is also found in pine forests, swamps, and along forest edges. It prefers environments with abundant tree cover where it can forage for insects under the bark. This species is adaptable to a variety of climatic conditions, from temperate regions in the north to subtropical areas in the south.

As a woodpecker, Leuconotopicus villosus plays a crucial role in its ecosystem by controlling insect populations, particularly those that live in or on trees. It is known for its distinctive drumming behavior and is an important cavity-nesting species, often creating nesting sites that can be used by other birds and mammals. This species is well-adapted to exploiting vertical surfaces of trees, where it pecks and forages for insects, primarily beetle larvae and ants.