Virginia, with its lush forests and diverse habitats, is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Among the feathered residents of this beautiful state, woodpeckers hold a special place, showcasing an incredible variety of species each with their own unique characteristics.
Their importance to the ecosystem cannot be overstated – they play a crucial role in controlling insect populations and creating nesting sites for other birds. Understanding these woodpeckers goes beyond mere birdwatching; it’s about appreciating the intricate balance of Virginia’s natural habitats.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll dive into the fascinating world of woodpeckers in Virginia, exploring each species that calls this state home – from the small yet industrious Downy Woodpecker to the rare and intriguing Red-cockaded Woodpecker.
We’ve compiled this list based on the official state checklist from the Virginia Society of Ornithology. It is effective as of April 6, 2024. The list includes 6 resident woodpecker species, 1 migratory and 1 rare visitor.
1. Downy Woodpecker
Exploring the charming Downy Woodpecker, you’ll find that this bird is not only one of the smallest woodpeckers in Virginia but also one of the most adaptable and ubiquitous across various habitats in the state.
The Downy Woodpecker has an extensive range that spans across North America. You can find these resilient birds from Alaska and Canada and through the United States.
Known for its resilience and presence in both rural and urban settings, the Downy Woodpecker brings a special kind of joy to birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Scientific Name: Dryobates pubescens.
Body Length and Weight: 6-7 inches, 0.74-1 ounces.
Wingspan: 10-12 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Both male and female Downy Woodpeckers share a predominantly black and white plumage, which aids in camouflage among the stark contrasts of tree bark. Males are distinguished by a striking red patch on the back of their heads, adding a splash of color to their otherwise monochromatic appearance.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Distinctive Markings: Look for the checkered black-and-white wing pattern and the bold white stripe down the back.
- Size and Posture: Smaller than many woodpeckers, with a straight-backed posture typical of the species.
- Vocalizations: Their sharp “pik” sound and a trilling call are unmistakable during your woodland walks.
You can spot Downy Woodpeckers almost everywhere in Virginia – from the bustling parks in urban areas to the serene expanses of deciduous forests.
They are particularly fond of areas like Shenandoah National Park and the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge, thriving in environments that offer a mix of mature trees and smaller growths.
The Downy Woodpecker is a master of survival, often seen flitting about, undisturbed by human presence. Remarkably, one of these birds was recorded to live over 11 years, a testament to its hardiness.
Its diet primarily consists of insects, especially wood-boring beetles, which it adeptly picks from tree barks, playing a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling pest populations.
Downy Woodpeckers adapt well to various environments, from untouched forests to suburban backyards where they are often guests at bird feeders.
They are particularly active during the winter months, joining mixed-species flocks, which increases their chances of survival by reducing predation risks and enhancing foraging success.
Their communication through sounds is quite varied; apart from their typical calls, they are known for their drumming on trees. This not only helps them carve out nesting cavities but also serves as a territorial signal to other woodpeckers.
As you venture out to observe these fascinating birds, remember that their presence is a good indicator of the health of our forest ecosystems.
Their ability to thrive in diverse environments and their role in controlling harmful insects make the Downy Woodpecker a beloved figure in Virginia’s avian community.
2. Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker is a bird that stands out not just for its size but for its vibrant display of colors and sounds.
Known for its large, brown body and striking black-scalloped plumage, the Northern Flicker brings a dash of drama to Virginia’s avian scene.
This species can be found from the frigid stretches of Alaska and Canada down through the continental United States and into parts of Central America like Mexico.
Scientific Name: Colaptes auratus.
Body Length and Weight: 11–14 inches, 5-6 ounces
Wingspan: 16.5–21.5 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Males are easily recognized by their black and tan checkered back, a tan belly with black spots, and a distinctive black necklace and mustache.
A charming red heart-shaped spot adorns the nape of their neck.
Females share the same pattern but lack the mustache, making them subtly different.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- White Rump Patch: Visible in flight, this is a key identifier.
- Vocalizations: Listen for a loud, ringing call or a piercing yelp, which can be heard over long distances.
- Foraging Behavior: Often found on the ground, making them unusual among woodpeckers.
Your best chance to spot these ground-foraging woodpeckers is in open woods or along the edges of forests.
Places like the rolling landscapes of the Blue Ridge Parkway or the diverse ecosystems of Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge are ideal.
To locate Northern Flickers, watch for movement on the ground or listen for their distinctive calls. Unlike most woodpeckers, these birds primarily feed on the ground, favoring ants as their main food source. Their slightly curved bill is uniquely adapted for digging, making them expert ant hunters.
In flight, look for a brilliant flash of yellow or red under the wings, depending on whether they’re from the eastern “Yellow-shafted” or western “Red-shafted” populations.
Northern Flickers exhibit fascinating behaviors, from their ground foraging habits to their migratory patterns. They can adapt to a variety of habitats, from dense forests to urban areas, making them a common sight in Virginia throughout the year.
Their calls include a loud ‘wicka-wicka-wicka’ and a sharp ‘kleeer’, which resonate through their habitats. These sounds are not just communication tools but also play a role in territorial defense.
As you explore the diverse habitats of Virginia, keep your senses tuned for the flash of color and the echo of their calls – signs that the Northern Flicker is thriving in its environment.
The Northern Flicker’s conservation status is currently of least concern, indicating a stable population.
3. Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker is a striking presence in Virginia’s woodlands.
You’ll notice its bold black and white plumage and robust, chisel-like bill, which is almost as long as its head – a stark contrast to the smaller Downy Woodpecker. This bird is not only a master of tree drumming but also an essential part of the ecosystem, known for its role in pest control.
Unlike its smaller counterpart, the Hairy Woodpecker boasts a widespread range across North America. From the dense boreal forests of Canada and Alaska to the subtropical woodlands of Florida and Mexico.
Scientific Name: Leuconotopicus villosus.
Body Length and Weight: 9-11 inches, 1.4-3.4 ounces.
Wingspan: 13-17 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Males feature a distinctive red patch on the back of their head, while females have a purely black and white head, making them easy to distinguish.
The bird’s ability to excavate deep into the wood sets it apart, allowing it to access insects other predators might miss.
Interestingly, the male’s red patch is often split in two, unlike the contiguous red patch of the Downy Woodpecker.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Bill Size: Significantly longer than that of the Downy, resembling a railroad spike.
- Tail Feathers: The outer tail feathers are all white, lacking the spots seen in the Downy.
- Overall Size: Larger than the Downy, standing almost 50% taller.
You can find Hairy Woodpeckers across Virginia’s mature forests, particularly in areas like the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests.
They thrive in environments with large, old trees, providing ample foraging opportunities and nesting sites. They are most active during the day, especially in spring and summer when they are breeding and feeding young.
Hairy Woodpeckers are known for their resilience, adapting to various habitats from deep forests to suburban backyards where they are often seen at suet feeders. Their nesting involves both males and females, who meticulously carve out nests in tree trunks lined with wood chips and occasionally soft man-made materials.
Their vocal repertoire includes a sharp “peek” and a stronger, faster rattle than that of the Downy Woodpecker, making their calls distinct. These sounds serve not just for communication but also as territorial markers. As you explore the forests and parklands of Virginia, keep an ear out for their powerful drumming and an eye on the trees for a glimpse of this magnificent woodpecker.
The Hairy Woodpecker’s conservation status is currently of least concern, indicating a stable population. Their presence is a sign of a healthy, thriving forest, so spotting one is always a good omen for the ecosystem.
4. Red-Bellied Woodpecker
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is a bird that’s as charismatic as it is common in Virginia. This species, easily recognized by its bright red cap and nape – though its name might suggest otherwise – sports a subtler red hue on its belly that’s often hidden from view. You might already be familiar with their lively antics, as they’re a frequent sight in both woodlands and suburban areas.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker is found across much of the eastern United States, from the Great Plains to the Atlantic Coast. Their range also extends northward to southern Canada and southward to the Gulf Coast states.
They are particularly common residents in the southeastern states, where ample forests and wooded suburban areas provide ideal habitats.
Scientific Name: Melanerpes carolinus.
Body Length and Weight: 9.4 inches, 2–3.2 ounces.
Wingspan: 13–16 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Males feature a striking red stripe from the bill to the nape, making them stand out in the Virginia woodlands. Females share the overall body patterning but display red only on the nape, adding a subtle contrast to their partners.
The Red-bellied Woodpecker stands out not only for its striking red plumage but also for its remarkable ingenuity.
These birds are known to wedge large nuts into bark crevices and then smash them into smaller, manageable pieces—a clever trick to access food.
Their tongue, nearly two inches extendable past the end of their beak, is equipped with a barbed tip, making it perfect for extracting hidden insects and savoring sap.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Distinctive Coloring: The red cap and nape are unmistakable, set against a body mottled with black and white.
- Feeding Behavior: Watch for their unique method of wedging nuts into bark to break them apart.
- Habitat Preference: Prefers old forests and wooded suburban areas, often visiting backyard feeders.
You can find the Red-bellied Woodpecker across Virginia’s diverse landscapes, from the dense forests of the Appalachian Mountains to the bustling suburbs of Richmond.
They thrive in mixed woodlands, especially those dotted with old trees and snags that provide ample feeding and nesting opportunities.
They are adaptable and resilient, thriving in a range of environments from untouched wilderness to modified human landscapes. Often seen utilizing bird feeders in winter months, they have a knack for making the best out of available resources.
Their calls are a mix of a shrill ‘churr’ and a descending ‘chuck’, sounds that carry through their territory. These vocalizations are not just for communication but also play a crucial role in maintaining their territory.
The presence of the Red-bellied Woodpecker is a testament to the health and vibrancy of Virginia’s ecosystems, making every sighting a delightful encounter for bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike.
As you explore Virginia’s rich tapestry of habitats, listen for the distinctive calls and watch for the flash of red among the treetops.
5. Pileated Woodpecker
Venturing deeper into Virginia’s forests, you might hear the distinct sound of the Pileated Woodpecker, an emblematic figure with its loud calls and powerful pecking echoing through the woods.
This bird, nearly the size of a crow, is not just a sight to behold but a fascinating creature to learn about. Known for its striking appearance and significant role in the ecosystem, it’s a bird you’ll want to keep an eye out for during your nature explorations.
The Pileated Woodpecker is found much across North America. This species can be observed from the northern reaches of Canada, where they adapt to colder climates, down through the eastern United States, and even into parts of the Pacific Northwest.
In Virginia, Pileated Woodpeckers are prevalent in extensive forests, including regions within the Shenandoah National Park and other protected woodlands.
Scientific Name: Dryocopus pileatus.
Body Length and Weight: 16–19 inches, 7.9 to 14.1 ounces.
Wingspan: 26–30 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
The Pileated Woodpecker commands attention with its robust size, comparable to that of an American Crow.
Males boast a bright red crest and a matching red stripe on the cheek, a signature look that’s hard to miss. Females share the red crest but lack the cheek stripe, instead sporting a more subdued appearance with a gray-black forecrown.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Distinctive Rectangular Holes: Their feeding excavations are unique and a clear sign of their presence.
- Vocalizations: Their loud, whinnying calls and deep, slow drumming can be heard from a distance, a hallmark of their communication.
- Flight Pattern: In flight, they reveal white underwings and a white stripe on the upper wings, flying with a crowlike grace.
You’ll find these birds in wooded areas that offer a mix of large, dead trees and downed wood, essential for their feeding and nesting. They’re adaptable and can occasionally be seen in partially wooded suburbs, bringing a touch of wildness to more urban settings.
The Pileated Woodpecker is renowned for its exceptional excavation skills, creating large, rectangular holes in search of carpenter ants, their primary food source. These excavations not only serve their dietary needs but also provide nesting sites for various other species, showcasing their pivotal role in the ecosystem.
Pileated Woodpeckers are monogamous, pairing for life, and fiercely defend their territory with bold displays and vocalizations.
Their diet is mostly insects, but they’re known to eat fruits and nuts, showcasing their adaptability in various environments.
Their calls are distinctive and loud, including a series of whinnying sounds and a deep, rolling drumming that resonates through the forest. These sounds not only serve for communication but also play a crucial role in their mating rituals and territorial disputes.
6. Red-Headed Woodpecker
This bird, with its bright red head and neck set against a contrasting black body and wings, is a vibrant sight in Virginia’s diverse habitats. It’s not just their looks that capture attention; their behavior and ecological roles make them fascinating subjects of study.
The Red-headed Woodpecker is found much across North America, with a particularly strong presence in the eastern United States.
In Virginia, they are found in a variety of habitats including deciduous forests, orchards, groves, open woodlands, and even urban parks. These birds are partial migrants, meaning some populations may relocate seasonally depending on food availability and climate conditions.
During the winter months, they can be found in the southern parts of their range, often frequenting areas with abundant mast crops such as acorns and beechnuts. In the summer, their breeding grounds extend as far north as southern Canada. Their adaptability to different environments has allowed them to thrive in both rural and suburban settings, making it possible for bird watchers in Virginia to enjoy their striking appearance and dynamic behavior throughout the year.
Scientific Name: Melanerpes erythrocephalus.
Body Length and Weight: 7.5–9.8 inches, 2.0–3.4 oz.
Wingspan: 16.7 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Both male and female Red-headed Woodpeckers share the same vivid red head and neck, contrasting sharply with their black back and white belly. Juveniles start with a grey head, which gradually turns red as they mature.
The Red-headed Woodpecker is known for its aerial agility, often seen darting through the air, nabbing insects in flight, or hanging upside down to forage. They are also known for their resourcefulness in food storage, stashing away nuts and seeds in tree crevices for later use.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Vibrant Red Head: The head and neck’s bright red coloration is unmistakable.
- Foraging Behavior: Look for them flying acrobatically or hanging upside down on tree trunks.
- Nesting Sites: They prefer to nest in dead trees, creating gourd-shaped cavities.
You might spot these medium-sized woodpeckers in open wooded areas, especially near old oak or beech trees, which are their preferred nesting sites.
Places like Huntley Meadows Park, Bull Run Regional Park, and Conway Robinson State Forest in northern Virginia provide ideal conditions with ample snags for nesting.
They are cavity nesters, often reusing old nests but also capable of excavating new ones each year. These woodpeckers are territorial, especially during the breeding season when males drum loudly on trees to attract mates and deter rivals.
Their calls are distinctive, including a sharp ‘churr’ that can vary in intensity and duration, often used to communicate over long distances or warn off intruders.
The presence of the Red-headed Woodpecker is a sign of a thriving, well-balanced ecosystem, as they help control insect populations and play a part in maintaining the health of their woodland habitats.
As you explore the forests of Virginia, keep your ears open for their calls and eyes peeled for a flash of red among the trees.
7. Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, is a bird that might sound like it’s straight out of a cartoon, but it’s very much real and an intriguing part of Virginia’s avian landscape.
Its name alone conjures up images of animated woodland scenes, where playful birds flutter about with exaggerated antics. Yet, the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker has more to offer than just a memorable moniker.
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a migratory bird with a broad range across North America. During the breeding season, these birds are primarily found in the boreal forests of Canada and the northeastern United States.
As the seasons change and temperatures drop, they migrate to the southeastern United States, Central America, and the Caribbean for the winter.
In Virginia, they are typically seen during the migratory periods of spring and fall, although some may choose to overwinter in the warmer parts of the state.
Scientific Name: Sphyrapicus varius
Body Length and Weight: 7.5 inches–8.25 inches, 1.2–2.2 ounces
Wingspan: Features a long white stripe on the folded wing
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Migratory visitor, seen primarily in the winter months.
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is easily recognized by a long white stripe on its folded wing. Males of this species are notable for their vibrant red throats, which contrast sharply with their mottled black and white plumage.
Females, while similar in pattern, have white throats. Both sexes boast a striking appearance with barred black-and-white feathers and a prominent red forehead.
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is distinguished by its unique feeding method. It meticulously drills rows of holes in tree bark, called sapwells, and revisits them regularly to consume the sap and the insects drawn to it. This behavior not only sustains the sapsucker but also offers nourishment to other species, such as hummingbirds, bats, and porcupines.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Sapwells: Look for rows of small holes in tree bark, a tell-tale sign of a sapsucker’s presence.
- Coloration: The red forehead and throat patch (in males) are distinctive.
- Behavior: These birds are often seen clinging motionless to tree trunks while feeding.
You’re most likely to encounter the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in deciduous forests and mixed woodlands, especially where birch and maple trees are abundant.
During migration, keep an eye out in areas like the picturesque Blue Ridge Parkway and the diverse ecosystems of the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge.
Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers are among the few completely migratory woodpeckers in eastern North America. They have adapted to a variety of habitats, from young deciduous forests to suburban areas where they may visit suet feeders.
Listen for their cat-like calls and staccato drumming, especially prominent during the spring. These sounds are not only a means of communication but also play a role in their mating rituals and territorial defense. Their migration patterns are quite specific, with females typically traveling further south than males.
8. Red-cockaded Woodpecker
Known for its distinctive white cheek patches and the elusive red cockade found only on males, the Red-cockaded Woodpecker stands out in the Virginia woodlands.
You might already be aware of this species, especially if you’re keen on conservation stories, as it has faced significant challenges in its survival.
Once found throughout the southeastern United States, its numbers have dwindled due to habitat loss and fragmentation. However, thanks to conservation efforts, these woodpeckers are slowly making a comeback.
Scientific Name: Dryobates borealis.
Body Length and Weight: 7.9-9.1 inches, 1.4–2.0 ounces.
Wingspan: 13–16 inches.
Conservation Status: Endangered.
Status in Virginia: Resident.
Both males and females predominantly display black and white plumage with striking ladder-like white bars on their black backs.
Males are distinguished by a small red line, or “cockade,” often hidden behind black feathers on their cheeks.
The unique nesting behavior of the Red-cockaded Woodpecker sets it apart.
Unlike other woodpeckers, this species exclusively excavates its cavities in living pine trees, often selecting those softened by fungal infections, which makes the wood easier to work with.
This peculiar choice helps protect their nests from predators like snakes, thanks to the sticky pine resin that flows around the cavity.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- White Cheek Patches: Large and conspicuous, these are unlike the facial markings of any other local woodpecker species.
- Habitat: Prefers living pine trees in old-growth forests, a rarity in modern landscapes.
- Nesting Behavior: Unique for using living trees and surrounding their cavities with pine resin.
The Red-cockaded Woodpecker favors the pine savannas and old-growth pine forests of Virginia.
Prime locations to spot these birds include the Piney Grove Preserve and the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, where conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and restore their environment.
Their social structure is fascinating, involving cooperative breeding where family members assist in raising the young.
Their calls might be less familiar to you, but they include a soft, rolling “sklit” and an alarm call that sounds like a sharp “kik.”
These sounds are crucial for communication within their family groups and serve as alerts to potential dangers. By creating cavities that are later used by various other species, they contribute significantly to biodiversity.
9. Lewis’s Woodpecker
Known for its iridescent green-black upperparts, pinkish belly, and distinctive gray collar, this woodpecker brings a splash of color to Virginia’s landscapes when you can spot it.
The truth is, Lewis’s Woodpecker is a rare sight in the state, only spotted occasionally during migration or as a vagrant. However, it’s still worth keeping an eye out for this unique and beautiful bird.
Lewis’s Woodpecker has a wide range across the western parts of North America. It breeds from southern British Columbia and western Montana to central California and northern New Mexico.
During the winter months, some populations migrate southward, extending their range into the southern United States and northern Mexico.
While typically found west of the Rockies, Lewis’s Woodpecker can occasionally appear far outside its usual range, showing up as a rare visitor in states like Virginia.
These sightings are infrequent, often tied to changes in food availability or displacement from their preferred habitats.
Scientific Name: Melanerpes lewis.
Body Length and Weight: 10-11 inches, 3.1–4.9 ounces.
Wingspan: 19.3–20.5 inches.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
Status in Virginia: Vagrant.
If you’re familiar with woodpeckers, you might already appreciate the unique charm that Lewis’s Woodpecker brings to the table.
Both males and females share the same unique color pattern, making them easily recognizable.
Their dark, glossy green-black back contrasts beautifully with their rosy, pink belly and subtle gray collar, creating a vivid appearance that’s hard to miss.
Unlike other woodpeckers that drill into trees, Lewis’s Woodpecker often catches insects in mid-air, displaying a behavior more akin to flycatchers than woodpeckers. They also feed on nuts and berries, which they store in bark crevices for later use.
Easy to Spot Characteristics
- Coloration: The combination of green-black upperparts, pink belly, and gray collar is distinctive.
- Foraging Behavior: Often seen catching insects in flight rather than drilling into trees.
- Habitat: Prefers open woodlands, especially those with standing dead trees and abundant insect life.
To spot Lewis’s Woodpecker in Virginia, look in open woodlands and areas with plenty of standing dead trees.
They are most active during the day and are often seen during the warmer months of spring and summer, when insect activity is high. Check places like the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests, where these woodpeckers may find suitable habitats.
Lewis’s Woodpecker displays notable adaptability in its behavior. It often uses old cavities for nesting and is highly territorial, especially during breeding seasons. This bird’s ability to thrive in various habitats, from forests to open woodlands, highlights its resilience.
Their vocalizations include a variety of calls, ranging from harsh “churr” sounds to softer “quik” notes, used for communication and territorial defense. These calls help birdwatchers locate them amidst dense foliage and distinguish them from other local bird species.
Summary: Where To Spot These Woodpeckers
To increase your chances of spotting these woodpeckers in Virginia, look for them in their preferred habitats. This includes forests with standing dead trees, open woodlands, and areas with plenty of insect life.
Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and restore these birds’ habitats, making it possible for future generations to continue enjoying their presence. Keep
To find the various woodpeckers in Virginia, you can visit the following locations:
Downy Woodpecker
Found almost everywhere in Virginia, including urban parks and deciduous forests.
- Specific locations: Shenandoah National Park and Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
Northern Flicker
Prefers open woods and forest edges.
- Specific locations: Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Hairy Woodpecker
Thrives in mature forests with large old trees.
- Specific locations: George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
Red-Bellied Woodpecker
Common in mixed woodlands and wooded suburban areas.
- Specific locations: Appalachian Mountains and suburban areas of Richmond
Pileated Woodpecker
Found in extensive forests with large dead trees and downed wood.
- Specific locations: Shenandoah National Park and other protected woodlands
Red-Headed Woodpecker
Prefers deciduous forests, orchards, groves, open woodlands, and urban parks.
- Specific locations: Huntley Meadows Park, Bull Run Regional Park, and Conway Robinson State Forest
Yellow-Bellied Sapsucker
Seen during migratory periods, prefers deciduous forests and mixed woodlands.
- Specific locations: Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Red-Cockaded Woodpecker
Favors pine savannas and old-growth pine forests.
- Specific locations: Piney Grove Preserve and Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge
Lewis’s Woodpecker
A rare visitor, found in open woodlands with standing dead trees.
- Specific locations: George Washington and Jefferson National Forests
These locations offer ideal habitats for spotting these woodpecker species, each with its unique environment and birdwatching opportunities.