In North Dakota, a state known for its diverse wildlife, lies a hidden treasure of woodpecker species. This article aims to shed light on the magnificent seven woodpeckers that call North Dakota home. From the petite downy woodpecker to the striking red-headed woodpecker, each species brings its own unique charm to the region. Join us as we explore their characteristics, habits, and feeding preferences, and discover how you can create a welcoming haven for these fascinating birds in your own backyard. Prepare to be captivated by the vibrant plumage and rhythmic tapping of these North Dakota woodpeckers.
Introduction
North Dakota is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several species of woodpeckers. These fascinating birds are known for their distinctive behaviors and unique adaptations. In this article, we will explore the seven species of woodpeckers found in North Dakota: the downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, northern flicker, pileated woodpecker, red-headed woodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, and yellow-bellied sapsucker. Each species will be described in detail, including information on their size, appearance, habits, and feeding preferences. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to attract woodpeckers to your yard, so you can enjoy the beauty and charm of these fascinating creatures up close.
1. Downy Woodpecker
Description
The downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) is one of the smallest woodpecker species found in North Dakota. It measures about 6-7 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 9-10 inches. Despite its small size, the downy woodpecker sports a sturdy and compact build.
Appearance
This woodpecker has a black and white color pattern, with a black upper body and wings, and a white underbody. It has a short, chisel-like bill that is perfect for drilling into trees in search of food. The male downy woodpecker can be distinguished from the female by the presence of a small red patch on the back of its head.
Habits
Downy woodpeckers are often found in woodland areas, forests, and even urban parks and gardens. They are known for their drumming behavior, which involves rapidly tapping on tree trunks to communicate with other woodpeckers and establish their territory. These birds are also skilled climbers, using their strong feet and sharp claws to grip onto tree bark.
Feeding Preferences
The downy woodpecker primarily feeds on insects and larvae, which it extracts from tree trunks using its sharp bill. It also enjoys eating seeds, berries, and fruits. To attract downy woodpeckers to your yard, consider offering suet feeders, as these birds are particularly fond of this high-energy food source.
2. Hairy Woodpecker
Description
Slightly larger than the downy woodpecker, the hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus) measures around 8-10 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 13-16 inches. Despite its larger size, it shares a similar appearance with the downy woodpecker.
Appearance
The hairy woodpecker also showcases the classic black and white color pattern, with a black upper body and wings, and a white underbody. Its bill is comparatively longer than the downy woodpecker’s, allowing it to search for insects deeper within tree bark.
Habits
Similar to the downy woodpecker, the hairy woodpecker can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and suburban areas. It is known for its distinctive “peek” call, which it uses to communicate with other woodpeckers and establish its presence in its territory. Like other woodpecker species, it is an adept climber and uses its sharp claws to hold onto tree trunks.
Feeding Preferences
The hairy woodpecker feeds on a diet consisting mainly of insects, which it forages for by pecking at tree trunks. It will also consume seeds, fruit, and nuts. To attract hairy woodpeckers to your yard, consider providing a mix of suet, sunflower seeds, and nyjer seeds in bird feeders. These woodpeckers are particularly fond of suet, which provides a good source of energy.
3. Northern Flicker
Description
The northern flicker (Colaptes auratus), also known as the yellowhammer, is a larger woodpecker species found in North Dakota. It measures around 11-14 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 16-20 inches. Compared to the downy and hairy woodpeckers, the northern flicker is a more robust bird.
Appearance
Northern flickers have a unique appearance, with a brownish body covered in black bars. The undersides of their wings and tail feathers are a vibrant yellow, and their black bibs and spotted breasts are easily recognizable. The males can be distinguished by a black mustache mark near their beaks.
Habits
Unlike other woodpecker species, northern flickers spend a significant amount of time on the ground in search of food. They are often found in open areas such as fields, meadows, and parklands. When startled or in-flight, their vivid yellow wings are easily visible.
Feeding Preferences
Northern flickers have a varied diet, consisting of insects, ants, beetles, and other invertebrates found on the ground. They also eat fruits and seeds, and will readily visit bird feeders offering suet, sunflower seeds, and cracked corn. Providing a mix of ground-level and elevated feeders can help attract these diverse eaters to your yard.
4. Pileated Woodpecker
Description
The pileated woodpecker (Dryocopus pileatus) is one of the largest woodpecker species found in North Dakota. It is known for its impressive size, measuring around 16-19 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 26-30 inches. This iconic bird is often associated with its distinctive “Woody Woodpecker” call.
Appearance
The pileated woodpecker is a stunning bird with a predominantly black body, large white patches on its wings, and a bright red crest on its head. Males and females look alike, with the males having a slightly longer crest. They have a powerful bill designed for excavating large cavities in dead trees.
Habits
Pileated woodpeckers are found in mature forests, where they nest and forage for food. They are skilled acrobats, using their strong feet and tail feathers to cling onto vertical tree trunks. These woodpeckers are known for their impressive drumming behavior, which can be heard from a distance.
Feeding Preferences
The pileated woodpecker primarily feeds on insects found in decaying trees, including carpenter ants, beetles, and termites. They will also consume fruits and nuts. To attract pileated woodpeckers to your yard, consider leaving dead trees or snags standing, as these birds require them for nesting and foraging.
5. Red-headed Woodpecker
Description
As the name suggests, the red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalus) stands out with its distinct crimson red head. It measures around 7-10 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 16-17 inches.
Appearance
The red-headed woodpecker has a striking appearance, with a black body, white underparts, and a solid red head and neck. Its white wings showcase a black trailing edge, making it easily identifiable in flight. Both males and females have the same striking coloration.
Habits
These woodpeckers prefer open areas with scattered trees, such as woodlands, orchards, and farmlands. They are known for their unique habit of storing food, often impaling it on thorns or crevices in trees or fence posts. Red-headed woodpeckers are also skilled catchers, capturing insects in mid-air.
Feeding Preferences
The diet of the red-headed woodpecker consists of a variety of insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. To attract these woodpeckers to your yard, consider offering a mix of peanuts, suet, and sunflower seeds in bird feeders. Additionally, providing dead snags or nest boxes can help support their nesting requirements.
6. Red-bellied Woodpecker
Description
The red-bellied woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus) is a medium-sized woodpecker species found in North Dakota. It measures around 9-10 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 13-17 inches.
Appearance
Despite its name, the red-bellied woodpecker does not actually have a red belly. Instead, it has a red crown on its head and a vibrant red patch on its lower back. Its upper body is predominantly black, and its underparts are pale with black streaks. Both males and females have the same coloration.
Habits
Red-bellied woodpeckers inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and suburban areas. They are known for their territorial call, which sounds like a rolling “churr.” These woodpeckers are also adept climbers, scaling tree trunks and branches in search of food.
Feeding Preferences
The red-bellied woodpecker feeds on a diverse diet of insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They are particularly fond of acorns, which they store in crevices for later consumption. Offering a mix of suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds in bird feeders can help attract these vibrant woodpeckers to your yard.
7. Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Description
The yellow-bellied sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) is a small to medium-sized woodpecker species found in North Dakota. It measures around 7-8 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 13-16 inches.
Appearance
This woodpecker features a striking color pattern, with a yellow belly, black wings, and a white face and throat. Its back is predominantly black with white bars, and it has a red crown on its head. Males and females have similar appearances, with some slight variations in plumage.
Habits
Yellow-bellied sapsuckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and rural areas. They are unique among woodpeckers, as they specialize in feeding on tree sap. These birds drill small, regular rows of holes in tree bark and then return later to feed on the sap that seeps out.
Feeding Preferences
In addition to sap, yellow-bellied sapsuckers also feed on insects, fruits, and berries. Providing a mix of suet, fruit feeders, and nectar feeders can help attract these woodpeckers to your yard. It is important to note that drilling holes in trees may not be desirable for some homeowners, so consider providing alternative food sources and planting fruit-bearing trees and shrubs instead.
Tips to Attract Woodpeckers to Your Yard
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Offer food they like: Woodpeckers are attracted to suet, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and other high-energy foods. Providing a variety of bird feeders with these food sources can help entice woodpeckers to visit your yard.
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Leave dead trees for them to explore: Dead trees, also known as snags, are important for woodpeckers as they provide nesting sites and foraging opportunities. Leaving dead trees standing, if it is safe to do so, can make your yard more appealing to these birds.
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Provide nest boxes: Some woodpecker species, such as the northern flicker, will readily use nest boxes. Installing a woodpecker-specific nest box in your yard can provide a safe and secure place for woodpeckers to raise their young.
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Plant native fruit-bearing plants and trees: Woodpeckers are attracted to fruit-bearing plants and trees, such as crabapples, dogwoods, and serviceberries. Adding these native plants to your yard can provide a natural food source for woodpeckers and other bird species.
Remember, attracting woodpeckers to your yard requires patience. It may take time for them to discover your offerings and feel comfortable visiting your space. Creating a welcoming environment with a variety of food sources, nesting opportunities, and native vegetation will increase your chances of attracting these beautiful birds.
Conclusion
North Dakota is fortunate to be home to a diverse range of woodpecker species. Each species has its own unique characteristics, from the small yet mighty downy woodpecker to the impressive pileated woodpecker. By understanding their size, appearance, habits, and feeding preferences, you can enhance your appreciation for these fascinating birds. Whether you choose to attract woodpeckers to your yard or simply observe them in their natural habitats, their presence is sure to bring joy and wonder to any birdwatching enthusiast.