Hairy Woodpecker

Jill StaakeJill StaakeUpdated: Apr. 24, 2020

Almost identical to the Downy Woodpecker, the Hairy Woodpecker is larger in size and has a much heavier, longer bill.

Photos

William G. Hartford
Hairy Woodpecker, male
Dan Garber
Hairy Woodpecker, female
Hairy Woodpecker, juvenile

Information

Hairy WoodpeckerWilliam G. Hartford
William G. Hartford Hairy Woodpecker, male

Scientific Name: Picoides villosus.
Family: Woodpecker.
Length: 9-1/4 inches.
Wingspan: 15 inches.
Distinctive Markings: Black-and-white spotted back and wings with white underparts. Female lacks red on back of head.
Nest: Cavity excavated by both sexes; female usually lays four white eggs.
Voice: A strong “peek” or “peech,” sharper than the downy.
Habitat: Forests, but may move to open country in fall and winter.
Diet: Insects, larvae of woodborers, fruit and nuts.
Backyard Favorites: Suet, sunflower seeds, meat scraps and peanut butter.

Bird Song & Range Map

Listen to the Hairy Woodpecker’s song and learn where to spot them!

Bird songs provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Hairy Woodpecker Bird SpeciesRange maps provided by Kaufman Field Guides, the official field guide of Birds & Blooms.

Originally Published: September 28, 2013

Jill Staake
Jill Staake
Jill lives in Tampa, Florida, and writes about gardening, butterflies, outdoor projects and birding. When she's not gardening, you'll find her reading, traveling and happily digging her toes into the sand on the beach.