Hairy Woodpecker

Scientific name: Picoides villosus

Although the Hairy Woodpecker has a wide range across North America, it occurs at a fairly low density, and is not seen as often as the smaller Downy Woodpecker. Hairy Woodpeckers occur in a variety of forest types, and will readily some to feeders for suet.

Hairy woodpeckers are territorial, and males will chase other males, while females chase other females away from a territory. Nests are often placed in cavities in live trees, but dead trees are used also. It typically takes several weeks to excavate a nest cavity.

(Follow the links on the left for additional information.)