The Hairy Woodpecker

The Hairy Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker measuring eight to ten inches in length. The plumage on its back, belly and chest is white but its wings are black with large white spots. Its crown, forehead, and tail are black as well. Both sexes are similar in appearance except for the distinctive red patch on the male's nape.

The Hairy Woodpecker can be found throughout the United States and at a variety of elevations. They are a non-migratory bird remaining in their breeding habitat year-round. They prefer forested areas, both old growth and pine forests.

The male Hairy Woodpecker will mark his territory every spring by drumming on hollow trees and logs. It's the drumming and the size of his territory that ultimately attracts a female. Once mates, the pair of Hairy Woodpeckers will hollow out a small cavity in a tree to use for a nest. Three to six eggs are laid. The pair share the job of incubating the eggs with the female taking the day shift and the male taking over at night. The eggs hatch within 11 to 15 days. The hatchlings are fed by both parents and usually fledge 28 to 30 days later.

The Hairy Woodpeckers forage on trees. They will turn over bark or use their razor sharp beak to drill down to the insects. The bulk of their diet is made up of insects, but they will also eat fruit, berries, and nuts. They will visit backyard suit feeders during the winter months.

The Hairy Woodpecker's call is a harsh rattle. Their drumming is also distinctive, rapid with an abrupt beginning and end. To hear the sounds made by the Hairy Woodpecker, click on the link below.

Sound Byte: National Park Services: Hairy Woodpecker

The Hairy Woodpecker is a prolific bird with stable or increasing numbers across most of the United States. It has become rarer in the southeast due to fire suppression efforts. Though it is hard to except the idea, natural wildfires play a vital ecological role. Many species thrive in the new growth that arises after an area has been cleared by fire.

The Little Guy
The Downy Woodpecker

Big Brothers

The Red-bellied Woodpecker
The Pileated Woodpecker
The Red-headed Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker
The Northern Flicker

The Illusive One

The Ivory-billed Woodpecker

The Mischief Maker
Woody Woodpecker