Hairy Woodpecker look-alikes
Picoides villosus (par exemple)
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Hairy Woodpecker. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
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Downy Woodpecker
Dryobates pubescens
Key differences
The Downy Woodpecker is significantly smaller (about two-thirds the size of a Hairy Woodpecker). The most reliable field mark is the bill: the Hairy Woodpecker's bill is long, stout, and nearly as long as its head, while the Downy Woodpecker's bill is noticeably shorter and daintier, about half the length of its head. The outer white tail feathers of the Downy Woodpecker often have black barring or spots, whereas the Hairy Woodpecker's are pure white.
White-headed Woodpecker
Dryobates albolarvatus
Key differences
Found in western North America. Distinctive white head and black body. Males have a red patch on the nape. While also black and white, the extensive white on the head makes it easily distinguishable from the Hairy Woodpecker.
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