Woodpeckers are fascinating birds known for their distinctive drumming and ability to excavate holes in trees. If you live in Massachusetts, you may have noticed these birds in your backyard or local parks. But how much do you really know about the woodpeckers in your area?
In this article, we will explore the world of woodpeckers in Massachusetts, highlighting seven common species and their unique behaviors. Whether you are a bird enthusiast or simply curious about the wildlife in your surroundings, this article will provide you with valuable insights into the lives of these captivating birds.
By understanding the different woodpecker species and their behaviors, you can better appreciate and protect these remarkable birds in your own backyard. So, let’s delve into the world of woodpeckers in Massachusetts and discover the wonders of these avian drummers.
Here’s a List of the 7 Woodpecker Species Found in Massachusetts
Downy Woodpecker
- Life span: Up to 11 years (wild)
- Size: 5.5 to 7.1 inches (14 to 18 cm)
- Weight: 0.7 to 1.0 ounces (20 to 28 grams)
- Wingspan: 9.8 to 12.2 inches (25 to 31 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Downy Woodpecker is a small black and white bird with a distinctive pattern of black and white feathers. It has a relatively short bill and is only about 6-7 inches in length. This woodpecker can be found in open woodlands, and it also has a preference for urban areas, making it a common sight at bird feeders in people’s yards.
These birds are primarily insectivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, insect larvae, and spiders. They also consume seeds and berries, especially during the winter when insects are less abundant.
At bird feeders, Downy Woodpeckers are known for their acrobatic behavior as they cling to feeders and tree trunks, using their strong bills to extract seeds and suet.
The calls of the Downy Woodpecker are a soft and high-pitched “pik” sound, and they also have a rattling call that is used for communication.
Their nesting habits are unique, as they prefer to nest in dead tree cavities, where they excavate a hole for nesting. The male has a small red patch on the back of its head, which is a key feature that distinguishes it from the female.
In summary, the Downy Woodpecker is a small, acrobatic bird with a black and white pattern, a preference for open woodlands and urban areas, and unique nesting habits, making it a fascinating and common sight in North America.
Hairy Woodpecker
- Life Span: Up to 15 years (wild)
- Size: 7.1 to 10.2 inches (18 to 26 cm)
- Weight: 1.4 to 3.4 ounces (40 to 95 grams)
- Wingspan: 13.0 to 16.1 inches (33 to 41 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Hairy Woodpecker, scientifically known as Picoides villosus, is a medium-sized woodpecker that can be found across North America. It is known for its physical characteristics, including a larger beak, black and white striping pattern, and a red dot on the back of its head. Its distinguishing feature includes all-white outer tail feathers, which make it stand out among other woodpecker species.
Hairy Woodpeckers prefer mature forests with open spaces and are often found in woodland areas, parks, and even at backyard feeders. They are known for their consumption habits, which mainly consist of insects and some plant material. They use their larger beak to drill into trees in search of insects and sap.
These woodpeckers are approximately 9-10 inches in length, have a wingspan of about 15-17 inches, and weigh around 1.4-3.4 ounces. Their black and white striping pattern and red dot on their head make them easily identifiable among other woodpecker species. Their scientific name, Picoides villosus, has several variations including Dryobates villosus and Leuconotopicus villosus. Overall, the Hairy Woodpecker’s physical characteristics, habitat preferences, and consumption habits make it a unique and interesting species to observe in the wild.
Northern Flicker
- Life Span: Up to 9 years (wild)
- Size: 11.0 to 12.2 inches (28 to 31 cm)
- Weight: 3.9 to 5.6 ounces (110 to 160 grams)
- Wingspan: 16.5 to 20.1 inches (42 to 51 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a distinctive appearance. They have a brownish-gray body with black bars on the back and a prominent white rump patch that is visible in flight. Their undersides are speckled with black spots, and they have a distinctive red crescent on the nape of the neck. They also have a unique spotted pattern on their wings when in flight.
Northern Flickers can be found in open woodlands, parks, and suburban areas across North America. They are often seen foraging on the ground for ants and beetles, using their long, slightly curved bill to probe into the soil. They also feed on fruits, seeds, and nuts, making them versatile feeders.
To attract Northern Flickers to your backyard, consider putting up a suet feeder and installing a birdbath. Flickers are also known to be attracted to open areas with trees and dead snags, where they can find suitable nesting locations. Providing a mix of insects, fruits, and nuts in your feeders can also help entice them to visit.
When it comes to nesting, Northern Flickers prefer to excavate their own cavities in dead trees or use existing natural or man-made cavities. Their diet consists mainly of insects and their larvae, although they also consume fruits and seeds.
By offering the right habitat and food sources, you can attract these beautiful woodpeckers to your backyard and enjoy their unique presence.
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Red-bellied Woodpecker
- Life Span: Up to 12 years (wild)
- Size: 9.0 to 10.5 inches (23 to 27 cm)
- Weight: 2.0 to 3.2 ounces (57 to 91 grams)
- Wingspan: 13.0 to 16.5 inches (33 to 42 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is a medium-sized woodpecker with a striking appearance. It has a red crown and nape, a white belly, and a black and white striped back. It inhabits forests, particularly wooded swamps and river bottoms, and is also known to visit bird feeders for seeds and suet. This woodpecker is widely distributed across Massachusetts, found throughout the state in both residential and wooded areas.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is known for its distinctive “churr” call and its habit of drumming on trees. It uses its strong bill to excavate insects and their larvae from tree bark, as well as to chisel out cavities for nesting. It also feeds on fruits, nuts, and seeds. This woodpecker is often seen clinging to tree trunks and branches in its search for food. Its adaptability and widespread presence in Massachusetts make it a familiar sight for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Red-headed Woodpecker
- Life Span: Up to 9 years (wild)
- Size: 7.5 to 9.8 inches (19 to 25 cm)
- Weight: 2.0 to 3.4 ounces (57 to 96 grams)
- Wingspan: 16.5 to 18.1 inches (42 to 46 cm)
- Status: Near Threatened (population declining)
The Red-headed Woodpecker is easily recognized by its striking red head, black back, and white wings. They are medium-sized birds with a stout body, long bill, and short legs. These woodpeckers can be found in open woodlands, orchards, and along rivers and streams throughout North America. They prefer habitats with plenty of dead trees and large snags for nesting and foraging.
One unique aspect of the Red-headed Woodpecker’s feeding habits is its preference for catching insects in mid-air. They will also store nuts and seeds by wedging them into bark crevices or even impaling them on thorns. This behavior often leads to conflicts with other bird species over food and territory. They are also known to catch flying insects while hovering like a flycatcher, an unusual behavior for woodpeckers.
When foraging, the Red-headed Woodpecker has a distinctive way of hunting for food. They often “flycatch,” meaning they catch insects on the wing, and are not averse to taking advantage of bird feeders or foraging on the ground. They are also known for their habit of storing surplus food, wedging it into crevices in trees for later consumption. Overall, these woodpeckers have a unique appearance and interesting feeding habits that make them a fascinating bird species to observe in their natural habitat.
Pileated Woodpecker
- Life Span: Up to 12 years (wild)
- Size: 16.9 to 19.3 inches (43 to 49 cm)
- Weight: 8.8 to 12.3 ounces (250 to 350 grams)
- Wingspan: 26.0 to 29.5 inches (66 to 75 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in North America, measuring around 16-19 inches in length with a wingspan of 26-30 inches. It has a distinctive appearance with a red crest on its head, a black body, and white stripes on its face. Pileated Woodpeckers are known for their loud drumming and high-pitched calls, which are often heard in mature forests across the continent.
These woodpeckers prefer living in mature forests with large trees, particularly old-growth or partially logged areas. They are also adaptable and can be found in suburban and urban areas with suitable tree cover. Pileated Woodpeckers are skilled foragers and feed on wood-boring insects, which they are able to access with their strong bills. They also consume fruits, nuts, and ants.
Mature forests with large trees are crucial for the survival of Pileated Woodpeckers, as these trees provide nesting sites and food sources. The presence of these woodpeckers is important for these ecosystems, as they play a beneficial role in controlling populations of wood-boring insects, which can be harmful to trees. Additionally, their nest cavities provide homes for a variety of other bird species and wildlife. Thus, the conservation of mature forests is essential for the continued success of the Pileated Woodpecker.
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Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
- Life Span: Up to 8 years (wild)
- Size: 7.1 to 8.7 inches (18 to 22 cm)
- Weight: 1.5 to 2.5 ounces (42 to 70 grams)
- Wingspan: 13.4 to 15.8 inches (34 to 40 cm)
- Status: Least Concern (population stable)
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is commonly found in Massachusetts, particularly in mixed woodlands and forests with plenty of deciduous trees like maples, birches, and fruit trees. These birds have a unique method of feeding, where they drill small holes in tree bark to feed on the sap that oozes out. They may also catch insects attracted to the sap. They are also known to eat berries and fruits.
Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers build their nests in tree cavities, often near their feeding sites. They may also use abandoned woodpecker holes. To attract these birds to your backyard, you can set up suet feeders or offer fruit like oranges and apples. They are also attracted to hummingbird feeders with a mixture of sugar water. Planting suitable trees and providing a water source can also help draw them in.
To spot Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers in Massachusetts, head to mixed woodlands, deciduous forests, or areas with plenty of maple and birch trees. Look for them drilling holes in tree trunks or watch for their distinctively patterned plumage. They are known for their drumming sounds as well, so listen for their rhythmic tapping.
How do I attract woodpeckers to my backyard?
To attract woodpeckers to your backyard, it’s essential to provide the right bird feeders, suet, and birdseed. Upside-down suet feeders and squirrel-proof suet feeders are great options to attract woodpeckers, as they enjoy feeding while clinging upside down. Offering black oil sunflower seeds, mealworm suet, and peanut butter suet will also appeal to woodpeckers.
In addition to feeding, providing birdbaths is crucial for woodpeckers to drink and clean. Consider pedestal birdbaths or heated birdbaths to cater to their needs year-round.
To encourage breeding pairs of woodpeckers to your backyard, consider installing nest boxes. These boxes provide a safe and secure space for woodpeckers to raise their young.
By incorporating these features into your backyard, you can create an inviting environment for woodpeckers, attracting these beautiful birds to your outdoor space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Massachusetts is home to a diverse range of woodpecker species, each with their unique behaviors and characteristics. From the flashy Pileated Woodpecker to the industrious Downy Woodpecker, these birds play an important role in the ecosystem of Massachusetts forests. By understanding the different woodpecker species and their behaviors, we can appreciate and protect these fascinating birds and their habitats. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or simply interested in the wildlife of Massachusetts, exploring the world of woodpeckers in Massachusetts is sure to be a rewarding experience.
