Even though it’s one of the smallest states, Connecticut still has plenty of beautiful wildlife. The state has a wide variety of birds, and more specifically, several different species of woodpeckers. For this article we’re going to learn about the 7 species of Woodpeckers in Connecticut, and even give a few tips on how and when to spot them in the state.
Species of Woodpeckers in Connecticut
The 7 Species of woodpecker in Connecticut are Pileated Woodpeckers, Red-headed Woodpeckers, Red-bellied Woodpeckers, Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers, Downy Woodpeckers, Hairy Woodpeckers, and Northern Flickers.
Not all of these species are found year-round in CT, but they all occur regularly at certain times of the year.
1. Pileated Woodpecker
Length: 15.8-19.3 in
Weight: 8.8-12.3 oz
Wingspan: 26.0-29.5 in
Pileated Woodpeckers have a few key characteristics that make them easily identifiable. They are the largest woodpeckers in North America, with large, flaming-red crests at the tops of their heads and bold white stripes down the sides of their necks.
These woodpeckers are often heard before they are seen, either drumming into trees with their long, chisel-like bills, or calling with their loud, high-pitched whinny.
Find Pileated Woodpeckers year-round in Northern Connecticut, in forests that have plenty of tall trees and downed, rotting logs. Unique, rectangular shaped holes in wood are a distinct give away for these birds, indicating that they may be in the area.
To get at carpenter ants and other insects, Pileated Woodpeckers will even go as far as tearing apart stumps and other large sections of dead wood. Look for them at all heights of the forest — often foraging at the base of trees. In addition to insects they also eat wild fruit, berries, and nuts.