Woodpecker Identification Guide: Common Species in North America
• species
Woodpecker Identification Guide
Learn to identify common woodpecker species by their appearance, behavior, and distinctive drumming patterns.
Common Species
Downy Woodpecker
- Smallest North American woodpecker
- Black and white pattern
- Males have red patch
- Common at feeders
Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Medium-sized
- Red cap and nape
- Zebra-striped back
- Pale reddish belly
Northern Flicker
- Ground-feeding behavior
- Yellow or red underwings
- Spotted belly
- Brown barred back
Drumming Patterns
- Communication purposes
- Territory marking
- Species-specific rhythms
- Seasonal variations
Attracting Woodpeckers
- Suet feeders
- Dead tree snags
- Native plants
- Water sources