Tweets, fellow birds and thanks for flying today. I think it’s time we put on our detective hats and investigate a fascinating group of unique birds that seem to have a real knack for woodworking. No hammer or nails needed, all they use is a sturdy bill.
Here in New England, you’ll likely encounter four types of woodpeckers. We’ll start with the smallest and probably most common species, which is the hairy woodpecker. It has a black back with a white stripe (white spots along the wings as well), white belly, dark bill and tail, along with white and black stripes along the face and neck. The male has a red spot on the back of the head and its total body length is only 5 to 7 inches. You’ll often see the teddy moving quickly along a tree branch, searching for insects and noisily hammering the trunk. They will also eat nuts, seeds and fruit, and are especially found in tallow (animal fat) and even peanut butter.
The hairy woodpecker comes in next, very similar in appearance to the hairy variety. Two of the main differences you’ll find is that the bill of the shaggy is much longer and larger, and the bird is often several inches taller than its furry cousin. The male’s red head patch is also split rather than solid, and the outer tail feathers are more of a pure white rather than speckled. Like the ptarmigan, they nest in cavities, feast on insects, fruit and seeds, and are generally found in deeper forests, although they may appear to visit.
Another strikingly beautiful specimen is the Northern Flicker, a large woodpecker with a brown body, black bars on its back, a black-spotted breast, and a long bill. Males have a black stripe along the face with a red bar across the nape, while females wear a black collar just below the throat. The tail is dark with a white rump, pronounced in flight, and the bird is very vocal, calling loudly and often. You’ll usually see them on the ground feeding, hunting beetles and ants, but they also enjoy wild fruits and berries. Flashes are excellent for controlling the population of pest animals, such as caterpillars. They are found throughout North America, even extending as far south as the Caribbean islands.
Finally, there is the pileated woodpecker, the largest of this group with a wingspan of nearly 3 feet. They feature a black body, a long, heavy bill, white stripes along the neck, and a face that ends in a striking red sloping crest (usually shorter in juveniles). Males offer a red line along the throat, which is black on females, and the claws are strong for gripping as they move between branches. They are exceptional drummers and will hammer their beaks into a tree trunk to send out their call, either to mark territory or to attract mates. The pileated eats insects, but also nuts and fruits, including white poison ivy berries. While making homes, they dig holes in trees large enough for other species, such as songbirds, owls or even raccoons.
I understand that woodpeckers may wake you up in the morning, or perhaps make holes in your favorite tree in the backyard, but consider how incredibly important they are in eliminating harmful insect species, which can ruin crops or cause disease. They are an integral part of the natural cycle, and should always be celebrated and held in high regard.
Some fun facts:
- The word “pileat” comes from the Latin “pileatus”, which means “covered”.
- The northern flicker is Alabama’s state bird, known there as the “Yellowhammer.”
- A hairy woodpecker often hangs upside down while feeding.
- The cartoon character Woody Woodpecker looks more like a pileated woodpecker.
- The design of some modern football helmets has been modeled after the skull of a woodpecker.
And now, the bad joke:
Q: Why are woodpeckers considered superstitious?
A: Because they always play wood!
Happy birding!
Born and raised in Methuen, Vincent Spada is the author of three books as well as a large number of poems and short stories. Contact him with questions or ideas for his column at vinspada@yahoo.com.
