In New York, nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers are in for a treat as they can spot nine different species of woodpeckers. These fascinating birds include the striking Pileated Woodpeckers, the vibrant Red-headed Woodpeckers, and the playful Downy Woodpeckers, among others. While not all species are present year-round, they make regular appearances during specific times of the year. Each woodpecker species has its own unique characteristics and can be found in distinct habitats across the state. To attract these captivating creatures to your yard, you can provide food they enjoy, such as suet and black sunflower seeds, keep dead trees for foraging, set up nest boxes, and incorporate native fruit-bearing plants and trees into your landscape.
Pileated Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Pileated Woodpecker is the largest woodpecker species found in New York. With its striking black and white plumage, it is easily recognizable. It has a bright red crest on its head, which gives it a distinctive look. The male Pileated Woodpecker has a red stripe on its cheek, while the female has a black stripe. These birds have a long, chisel-like bill that they use for excavating tree bark in search of insects and larvae. They also have a long, powerful neck and strong legs, which allow them to cling onto tree trunks and branches.
Habitat
Pileated Woodpeckers can be found in mature forests with a mix of tall trees and open spaces. They prefer deciduous or mixed forests, as they rely on the trees for nesting and foraging. These woodpeckers are commonly found in areas with large, dead trees, as they prefer to excavate their nests in soft, decaying wood. They will also feed on the ground, searching for ants, beetles, and other insects.
Distribution
Pileated Woodpeckers are not found year-round in New York, but occur regularly at certain times of the year. They are more commonly seen in the warmer months, as they may migrate south in search of food during winter. In New York, they can be found in the western, central, and southern parts of the state. They are more abundant in forested areas and are less likely to be found in urban or suburban environments.
Behavior
These woodpeckers are known for their distinctive drumming sounds, which they produce by pounding on tree trunks with their bills. This drumming serves multiple purposes, including communication, establishing territory, and attracting a mate. Pileated Woodpeckers also have a loud, repetitive call, which can be described as a series of “wick-a-wick-a-wick” sounds. They are primarily diurnal birds, meaning they are active during the daytime.
Attracting Pileated Woodpeckers
To attract Pileated Woodpeckers to your yard, there are several things you can do. First, provide food they enjoy, such as suet and black sunflower seeds. These woodpeckers have a strong preference for suet, which is high in fat and provides them with essential energy. Additionally, leaving dead trees or dead branches in your yard can provide foraging opportunities for these woodpeckers. Pileated Woodpeckers feed on insects found in decaying wood, so having a natural habitat for them to find food is beneficial. Lastly, consider putting up nest boxes specifically designed for Pileated Woodpeckers to encourage them to nest in your area. These boxes should be placed high up on a tree trunk and facing away from prevailing winds.
Red-headed Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Red-headed Woodpecker is a striking bird with a bright red head and neck, contrasting with its black and white body. It has a stout bill, which it uses to forage for insects and acorns. Unlike other woodpeckers, the Red-headed Woodpecker mainly catches insects in the air, rather than excavating tree bark. It is known for its graceful flight and distinctive calls.
Habitat
Red-headed Woodpeckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, orchards, and even urban and suburban areas. They prefer open habitats with scattered trees, as they rely on dead trees for nesting cavities. Red-headed Woodpeckers are also known to frequent areas with standing water, such as swamps or wetlands. This provides them with ample food sources, such as aquatic insects.
Distribution
Red-headed Woodpeckers are relatively common in New York, but their distribution is more localized compared to other woodpecker species. They can be found throughout the state, but their populations are more concentrated in certain regions. They tend to prefer areas with larger tracts of forest and open fields. During migration, they may also pass through New York, stopping to rest and feed before continuing their journey.
Behavior
Red-headed Woodpeckers are highly territorial birds, especially during the breeding season. They aggressively defend their nesting site and foraging areas from other birds. These woodpeckers are known for their acrobatic flying skills, as they quickly maneuver through trees to catch insects in mid-air. They also store excess food in tree cavities or crevices, creating a pantry for themselves during leaner times.
Attracting Red-headed Woodpeckers
To attract Red-headed Woodpeckers to your yard, providing a variety of food sources is essential. These woodpeckers have a diverse diet that includes insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. Offering suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds can attract them to your bird feeders. Additionally, leaving dead trees or snags in your yard can provide nesting opportunities for these woodpeckers. They require a dead tree with suitable cavities for nesting and breeding. Providing nest boxes specifically designed for Red-headed Woodpeckers can also increase the likelihood of attracting them to your yard. These boxes should be placed at least 15 feet off the ground, facing away from prevailing winds, and in an open area with nearby foraging opportunities.
Red-bellied Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a red crown and nape, accompanied by a black and white body. Despite its name, the red coloration on its belly is often not visible in the field. This woodpecker has a long, sturdy beak that it uses to excavate tree bark and capture insects. It also has a zebra-like pattern on its wings and a distinctive rolling call that can be heard throughout its habitat.
Habitat
Red-bellied Woodpeckers can be found in a wide range of habitats, from forests to woodlands, swamps, and even urban areas. They prefer habitats with a mix of trees and open spaces, as this provides a variety of food sources. They are often found near water sources, such as rivers, streams, or ponds, due to the abundance of insects in these areas. These woodpeckers are adaptable and can thrive in both natural and human-altered environments.
Distribution
Red-bellied Woodpeckers are year-round residents in New York and can be found throughout the state. They are more commonly seen in the southern and central parts of the state, but are gradually expanding their range northward. Their populations have increased in recent years, likely due to the availability of food and nesting sites in urban and suburban areas.
Behavior
These woodpeckers have a diverse diet, feeding on insects, fruits, nuts, and seeds. They are excellent climbers, using their stiff tail feathers and strong legs to support themselves on vertical tree trunks. When foraging for insects, they use their sharp beak to remove the bark from trees and probe for hidden prey. Red-bellied Woodpeckers are also known for their drumming behavior, which serves as a form of communication and territorial display.
Attracting Red-bellied Woodpeckers
If you want to attract Red-bellied Woodpeckers to your yard, there are several steps you can take. Providing a variety of food options is key, as these woodpeckers have diverse dietary preferences. Fill your bird feeders with suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds to attract them. They are also known to feed on fruit, such as apples, oranges, and grapes, so adding a fruit feeder to your yard can be beneficial. Creating a wooded area in your yard by planting native trees and shrubs can also provide nesting opportunities for Red-bellied Woodpeckers. Dead trees or snags should be left standing, as they offer suitable foraging and nesting sites for these woodpeckers. Finally, having a reliable water source, such as a birdbath or shallow pond, can further attract them to your yard.
Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Yellow-bellied Woodpecker is a small to medium-sized woodpecker with a combination of yellow and black plumage. It has a bright yellow belly and rump, while its upperparts are mainly black with white markings. The male and female Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers look similar, making it difficult to differentiate them based on appearance alone. They have a relatively small bill compared to other woodpecker species, enabling them to extract insects from tree bark efficiently.
Habitat
Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, as well as coniferous forests. They prefer mature forests with a mix of tree species, as this provides a diverse range of food sources. These woodpeckers are commonly found in areas with dense vegetation, as it offers protection and nesting sites. They are also known to visit orchards and gardens in search of food.
Distribution
Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers are migratory birds and are not found year-round in New York. They breed in the boreal forests of Canada and Alaska and spend their winters in the southeastern United States and Central America. During migration, they pass through New York, mainly in the spring and fall. Their populations may vary from year to year, depending on food availability and environmental conditions.
Behavior
These woodpeckers have a unique feeding behavior known as “gleaning.” Instead of using their bills to excavate tree bark, they search for insects in crevices and on the surfaces of leaves, twigs, and branches. They are also known to hammer on trees to extract sap from woodpecker wells, a behavior shared with other woodpecker species. Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers have a high-pitched call, similar to a laughter-like “wicka-wicka-wicka” sound.
Attracting Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers
Attracting Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers to your yard can be challenging, given their migratory nature. However, there are steps you can take to increase the likelihood of attracting them. Planting native trees and shrubs that provide a food source, such as berries and fruits, can attract these woodpeckers during their stopovers. Additionally, leaving dead snags or tree limbs standing in your yard can create foraging opportunities for them. Providing a diverse range of bird feeders with suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds can also entice Yellow-bellied Woodpeckers to visit your yard during their migration period.
Downy Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker species found in New York. It has a black and white plumage, similar to other woodpecker species, but can be distinguished by its small size and short bill. The male Downy Woodpecker has a small red patch on the back of its head, while the female does not. These woodpeckers have a drumming pattern that consists of short, rapid bursts, unlike the longer and slower drumming of larger woodpeckers.
Habitat
Downy Woodpeckers can be found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and even urban and suburban areas. They are adaptable birds that can thrive in both natural and human-altered environments. These woodpeckers tend to prefer habitats with a mix of trees and open spaces, as they rely on both for nesting and foraging. They are often seen exploring tree trunks and branches in search of insects and larvae.
Distribution
Downy Woodpeckers are the most common woodpecker species found in New York. They are resident birds, meaning they can be found in the state year-round. Their populations are stable and widely distributed throughout the state. They are frequently seen visiting bird feeders, where they enjoy suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds.
Behavior
These woodpeckers have a diverse diet that includes insects, larvae, seeds, nuts, and fruits. They are known for their acrobatic foraging behavior, as they can cling to tree trunks and branches while searching for food. Downy Woodpeckers have a high-pitched call that can be described as a sharp “pik” or “peek” sound. They use drumming as a form of communication and also to establish territories.
Attracting Downy Woodpeckers
To attract Downy Woodpeckers to your yard, providing a variety of food sources is important. Fill your bird feeders with suet, peanuts, and high-quality sunflower seeds, as these are among their preferred foods. The availability of dead trees or snags in your yard is also beneficial, as Downy Woodpeckers will use them for nesting cavities and foraging. If dead trees are not present, consider putting up a nest box specifically designed for Downy Woodpeckers. These boxes should be placed 10 to 20 feet above the ground and in a location with nearby food sources.
Hairy Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Hairy Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a black and white plumage, similar to its close relative, the Downy Woodpecker. It can be distinguished from the Downy Woodpecker by its larger size, longer bill, and lack of a red patch on the back of its head. Male and female Hairy Woodpeckers look similar, making them difficult to differentiate based on appearance alone. These woodpeckers have a slow, deliberate drumming pattern, similar to other larger woodpecker species.
Habitat
Hairy Woodpeckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including deciduous and mixed forests, as well as woodlands and even urban areas. They are adaptable birds that can thrive in both natural and human-altered environments. These woodpeckers rely on dead and decaying trees for nesting and foraging. They are often seen excavating tree bark in search of insects and larvae.
Distribution
Hairy Woodpeckers are common throughout New York and can be found year-round in the state. Their populations are stable and widely distributed. These woodpeckers are often seen visiting bird feeders, where they enjoy suet, peanuts, and sunflower seeds. They may also explore backyard trees and shrubs in search of insects.
Behavior
Similar to other woodpecker species, Hairy Woodpeckers have a diverse diet that includes insects, larvae, seeds, nuts, and fruits. They use their long bills to excavate tree bark and probe for hidden prey. Hairy Woodpeckers have a distinctive flight pattern, with a series of rapidly beating wings followed by a short glide. They also have a loud, rattling call that can be heard throughout their habitat.
Attracting Hairy Woodpeckers
To attract Hairy Woodpeckers to your yard, offering a variety of food sources is important. Fill your bird feeders with suet, peanuts, and high-quality sunflower seeds, as these are among their preferred foods. The availability of dead or decaying trees in your yard can also provide foraging opportunities for Hairy Woodpeckers. If dead trees or snags are not present, consider putting up a nest box specifically designed for Hairy Woodpeckers. These boxes should be placed 10 to 20 feet above the ground and in a location with nearby food sources.
Northern Flickers
Characteristics
The Northern Flicker, also known as the Yellow-shafted Flicker, is a large woodpecker with a unique plumage. It has a brown back with black bars, a white rump, and a distinctive black crescent on its chest. The undersides of its wings and tail feathers are bright yellow, giving it its name. Male and female Northern Flickers look similar, but males have a small black mustache marking on their cheeks. These woodpeckers have a distinctive flight pattern, with a series of rapid, shallow wingbeats followed by a sudden glide.
Habitat
Northern Flickers can be found in a variety of open habitats, including forests, woodlands, grasslands, and even urban and suburban areas. They are adaptable birds that can thrive in both natural and human-altered environments. These woodpeckers are often seen on the ground, foraging for ants and beetles. They also excavate tree cavities for nesting and roosting.
Distribution
Northern Flickers are common throughout New York and can be found year-round in the state. Their populations are stable and widely distributed. These woodpeckers visit bird feeders occasionally, but their primary food source consists of ants and beetles found on the ground. They may also be attracted to yards with open spaces and dead trees.
Behavior
Northern Flickers have a diverse diet, feeding on insects, fruits, seeds, nuts, and berries. They are often seen foraging on the ground, using their long, barbed tongue to extract ants and beetles from anthills. These woodpeckers have a loud, piercing call that can be described as a series of rattling or wickering sounds. Northern Flickers also use their beaks to drum on trees, particularly during the breeding season.
Attracting Northern Flickers
Attracting Northern Flickers to your yard can be challenging, as their dietary preferences are mainly focused on ground-dwelling insects. However, providing suitable habitat can increase the likelihood of attracting them. Leaving dead trees or snags in your yard can serve as foraging and nesting sites for Northern Flickers. They often excavate cavities in dead trees for nesting and will use these cavities year-round for roosting. Providing open areas with short grass or bare soil can also attract them, as these areas are more likely to have abundant ant populations. Ants are a primary food source for these woodpeckers, and having a reliable ant population will increase their presence in your yard.
American Three-toed Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The American Three-toed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a black and white plumage, similar to other woodpecker species. It can be distinguished by its lack of outer tail feathers, as it only has three toes instead of the typical four found in other woodpeckers. These woodpeckers have a white back with black bars, a black crown, and a small yellow patch on the side of their heads. Male and female American Three-toed Woodpeckers look similar, making them difficult to differentiate based on appearance alone.
Habitat
American Three-toed Woodpeckers can be found in coniferous forests, particularly those with dense stands of spruce and fir trees. They prefer mature forests with a mix of tree species, as this provides a diverse range of food sources. These woodpeckers are often seen scaling tree trunks in search of insects and larvae. They have a unique foraging behavior, selectively removing bark from specific areas to uncover hidden prey.
Distribution
American Three-toed Woodpeckers are uncommon in New York and are not found year-round in the state. They are mainly found in boreal forests of Canada and the western United States. However, they may occasionally pass through New York during migration, particularly in the northern parts of the state. Sightings of American Three-toed Woodpeckers in New York are sporadic and depend on environmental factors.
Behavior
Similar to other woodpecker species, American Three-toed Woodpeckers have a diverse diet that consists of insects, larvae, and tree sap. They use their unique foraging behavior to extract insects from the inner bark of trees. Unlike other woodpeckers, they tend to forage upside down or in awkward positions, using their specialized bill and toes to grip the tree trunk. American Three-toed Woodpeckers have a soft, rapid drumming pattern, which can be difficult to hear from a distance.
Attracting American Three-toed Woodpeckers
Attracting American Three-toed Woodpeckers to your yard in New York can be challenging, given their limited presence in the state. However, creating a suitable habitat can increase the likelihood of attracting them during migration. Maintaining a mix of mature coniferous trees in your yard can provide foraging opportunities for these woodpeckers. Dead trees or snags should be left standing, as they offer suitable nesting sites and foraging opportunities. Providing a constant source of tree sap or attracting insects to your yard can also entice American Three-toed Woodpeckers during their migration period.
Black-backed Woodpeckers
Characteristics
The Black-backed Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker with a black plumage and a distinct white patch on its wings. The male Black-backed Woodpecker has a small yellow crown patch, while the female has a white crown patch. These woodpeckers have a sturdy, chisel-like bill that they use to excavate tree bark and dead wood in search of insects and larvae. They have a distinctive flight pattern, with several quick wingbeats followed by a short glide.
Habitat
Black-backed Woodpeckers can be found in a variety of habitats, including coniferous forests, burned or recently disturbed areas, and areas with dead or decaying trees. They rely on the availability of dead wood for foraging and nesting. These woodpeckers are often seen scaling tree trunks and branches in search of insects and larvae. They are well-adapted to harsh environments and can be found in areas with extreme weather conditions.
Distribution
Black-backed Woodpeckers are uncommon in New York and are not found year-round in the state. They are mainly found in boreal forests of Canada and the western United States. However, they may occasionally pass through New York during migration, particularly in the northern parts of the state. Sightings of Black-backed Woodpeckers in New York are sporadic and depend on environmental factors, such as the presence of suitable habitat and food sources.
Behavior
Black-backed Woodpeckers have a diverse diet that includes insects, larvae, and tree sap. They are often seen excavating tree bark and scaling branches in search of hidden prey. These woodpeckers have a loud, rattling call that can be described as a series of “chur” or “chick” sounds. They also use drumming as a form of communication and territorial display.
Attracting Black-backed Woodpeckers
Attracting Black-backed Woodpeckers to your yard in New York can be challenging, given their limited presence in the state. However, creating suitable habitat can increase the likelihood of attracting them during migration. Leaving dead trees or snags in your yard can offer foraging and nesting opportunities for these woodpeckers. The availability of recently burned or disturbed areas can also attract them, as they are known to forage in these types of environments. Black-backed Woodpeckers are attracted to the insects and larvae that thrive in recently disturbed trees. Providing a constant source of tree sap or attracting insects to your yard can further entice Black-backed Woodpeckers during their migration period.
Attracting Woodpeckers to Your Yard
Woodpeckers are fascinating birds to observe, and their presence in your yard can add excitement and beauty to your surroundings. To attract woodpeckers to your yard, there are several steps you can take.
Food Preferences
Woodpeckers have specific food preferences that you can cater to. Offering suet, a high-fat food made from animal fat and seed mix, is a great way to attract woodpeckers. They are particularly fond of suet during the winter months when their insect food sources are scarce. Additionally, providing black sunflower seeds, peanuts, and tree nuts can also attract woodpeckers to your feeders. These foods are high in fat and protein, providing them with the necessary energy to forage and survive.
Providing Forage Opportunities
Woodpeckers primarily forage on insects, larvae, and spiders found on tree bark and in crevices. To attract woodpeckers, provide opportunities for them to find food. Leaving dead trees or snags in your yard can serve as foraging sites, as they offer a steady supply of insects. Woodpeckers are particularly attracted to dead or decaying trees, as they are filled with insect larvae. If dead trees are not present, consider creating your own wooden feeding station. You can attach a block of suet or a log with holes drilled in it to a tree trunk, creating a natural buffet for woodpeckers.
Nest Boxes
Some woodpecker species are cavity nesters, meaning they nest in tree cavities. Providing nest boxes specifically designed for woodpeckers can increase the chances of attracting them to your yard. The dimensions of the nest box should mimic natural tree cavities, with an entrance hole large enough for the woodpecker species you are targeting. Place the nest box high up on a tree trunk, away from potential predators and facing away from prevailing winds. Providing suitable nesting opportunities can encourage woodpeckers to stay and establish territories in your yard.
Native Fruit-Bearing Plants and Trees
Woodpeckers also feed on fruits and berries, particularly during the summer months. Adding native fruit-bearing plants and trees to your yard can attract woodpeckers. Examples of such plants include dogwood, serviceberry, elderberry, and chokeberry. These plants provide a natural food source for woodpeckers and other bird species, enhancing biodiversity in your yard. Make sure to choose native plant species that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions.
In conclusion, attracting woodpeckers to your yard in New York can be achieved by providing suitable food sources, creating forage opportunities, offering nest boxes, and planting native fruit-bearing plants and trees. By following these steps, you can create a welcoming habitat for woodpeckers and enjoy their presence and unique behaviors. Remember to be patient and observe from a distance, allowing these fascinating birds to thrive in their natural environment.