There are many different types of woodpeckers that can be found in Alaska. The three most common woodpecker species in Alaska are the black-backed woodpecker, the American three-toed woodpecker, and the hairy woodpecker. Each of these species has unique characteristics that set them apart from other woodpeckers.
We’ll go through the most frequently seen woodpeckers in Alaska with images and important information. The data were gathered only from trusted resources and confirmed with an Ornithologist.
Most Common Woodpecker Species of Alaska
Black-backed Woodpeckers
Black-backed Woodpeckers are medium-sized woodpeckers with black backs, white bellies, and red caps. They have stout bills and long tongues that they use to extract insects from crevices in trees. Black-backed Woodpeckers can be identified by their characteristic “yelping” call.
Black-backed Woodpeckers are found in forests throughout North America. In Alaska, they are most commonly found in the boreal forest and the aspen parkland. Black-backed Woodpeckers feed on a variety of insects, including ants, beetles, termites, and wood-boring larvae. They also eat fruit and nuts.
Black-backed Woodpeckers are cavity nesters. They use their strong bills to excavate nesting cavities in dead trees or decaying stumps. Black-backed Woodpecker nests are typically lined with wood chips and can be up to 20 inches deep. Female black-backed Woodpeckers lay four to six eggs, which are incubated by the male for about 14 days. The young Woodpeckers fledge after about two weeks.
Black-backed Woodpeckers are common and widespread birds, so they are not considered to be threatened or endangered. However, their populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss.
American Three-Toed Woodpecker
The American three-toed woodpecker is a medium-sized black and white woodpecker that is found in North America. This bird has a black body with white stripes running down its back, and a white belly. The male of the species has a red patch on the back of its head, while the female does not. These woodpeckers are found in coniferous forests and boreholes into trees in order to find food. The American three-toed woodpecker is a protected species in some parts of its range.
The American three-toed woodpecker is about 16 inches long with a wingspan of about 24 inches. This bird weighs around six ounces. This woodpecker has a long, sharp beak that it uses to peck at trees in order to find food. It also has a stiff tail feather which it uses as a prop while drilling into trees. The American three-toed woodpecker can be identified by its black body with white stripes, white belly, and red patch on the back of its head. This bird is found in North America, specifically in coniferous forests. The American three-toed woodpecker bores holes into trees to find food such as insects. These birds are protected in some areas due to their declining population.
The American three-toed woodpecker is a medium-sized black and white woodpecker found in North America. This bird has a black body with white stripes running down its back, and a white belly. The male of the species has a red patch on the back
Hairy Woodpecker
The Hairy Woodpecker is a medium-sized woodpecker that ranges from 13 to 17 inches in length. They have black and white feathers, with a red patch on the back of their head. Males are slightly larger than females. They have a typical woodpecker diet, which includes insects, tree sap, and fruit.
Hairy Woodpeckers are found in woodlands throughout Alaska. They prefer coniferous forests, but can also be found in deciduous forests and mixed woods. They are most common in the southern part of the state.
Hairy Woodpeckers are year-round residents of Alaska. They are non-migratory and can be found in all seasons. They are monogamous and form pairs that stay together year-round.
Hairy Woodpeckers use their strong bills to drill into trees in search of food. They also use their bills to drum on tree trunks, which is thought to be a communication method.
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Alaska is home to many different kinds of animals, including the yellow-bellied sapsucker. This bird is easily recognizable by its bright yellow belly and redhead. The male and female birds look very similar, but the males have slightly brighter plumage. These birds are found in wooded areas across North America and prefer to nest in trees.
The yellow-bellied sapsucker is a small bird, measuring only about six inches in length. It has a short, stout bill and a long, pointed tongue that it uses to drill holes in tree bark. The sapsucker feeds on the sap that flows from these holes, as well as on insects and berries.
The yellow-bellied sapsucker is a beautiful bird that is fun to watch. If you’re lucky enough to see one in the wild, be sure to take some time to enjoy its unique behavior.
These birds are found in wooded areas across North America and prefer to nest in trees.
Great Spotted Woodpeckers
Great Spotted Woodpeckers are a common sight in Alaska. They can be identified by their black and white plumage and distinctive red cap. These birds are around 13 inches long and weigh about six ounces.
Great Spotted Woodpeckers live in deciduous forests, where they feed on insects and spiders. They will also eat nuts and berries. These birds nest in tree cavities and usually lay four to six eggs.
If you’re lucky enough to see a Great Spotted Woodpecker in the wild, you’ll be able to enjoy watching these fascinating birds up close. Just remember to give them space, as they are wild animals and should not be disturbed.
Downy Woodpeckers
The Downy Woodpecker is a small woodpecker that is found in North America. They have black and white plumage, and a characteristic red patch on the back of their head. Downy Woodpeckers are very active birds and are known for their quick movements and acrobatic flights. They feed on insects, which they find by pecking at the bark of trees. Downy Woodpeckers typically live in forests, but can also be found in parks and other urban areas.
Downy Woodpeckers are very common birds and can be found in most parts of Alaska. They are a favorite of birdwatchers due to their small size and colorful plumage. If you are lucky enough to see a Downy Woodpecker, you will surely be impressed by their energetic antics!
The key identifying feature of the Downy Woodpecker is its small size. At around six inches in length, it is one of the smallest woodpeckers in Alaska.
Related post: Types of Woodpeckers in New England
Northern Flicker
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized bird that is found in North America. They are brown on the top and have a white stripe down their sides. They have a black mustache and a red patch on their breast. Northern Flickers are ground foragers, meaning they forage for food on the ground. They eat insects, seeds, and berries. Northern Flickers are also known to eat tree sap.
The males have a red patch on their heads, while the females do not. The Northern Flicker is the state bird of Alaska. They mate for life and typically lay between four and six eggs at a time. The young hatch after about two weeks and leave the nest after about six weeks. Northern Flickers typically live between seven and ten years in the wild.
If you’re lucky enough to see a Northern Flicker, you’ll be sure to remember it! These beautiful birds are just one of the many reasons to love Alaska.
Do woodpeckers migrate from Alaska?
There is no definitive answer to this question as there are many different species of woodpeckers and each one has its own migratory patterns. However, it is generally believed that woodpeckers do migrate from Alaska during the winter months. This is thought to be due to the fact that food sources are more scarce in Alaska during the winter, so the birds move to areas where there is more food available.
How to attract woodpeckers?
There are a few things you can do to attract woodpeckers to your backyard. One is to install a bird feeder. Woodpeckers love to eat insects, so make sure to put out some insect-rich food like suet or mealworms. You can also plant trees and shrubs that will provide them with food and shelter. Finally, make sure to provide a source of water. A birdbath or small pond will do the trick. By following these steps, you’ll be sure to attract woodpeckers to your backyard in no time!