Woodpeckers are a unique type of bird. They belong to the family, Picidae, and they’re easily recognized by their habit of hammering into the sides of trees for insects and larvae. There are many species of woodpeckers that are dispersed throughout North America, but today we’re going to focus on the 7 species of woodpeckers in Maryland.
There are plenty of opportunities to spot these colorful and interesting woodpeckers in every U.S. state, including Maryland. Keep reading to learn about the best places and times to observe them.
Species of Woodpeckers in Maryland
The 7 species of woodpeckers found in Maryland are the Red-headed Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Downy Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker, Yellow-bellied Sapsucker, and the Hairy Woodpecker.
1. Red-Headed Woodpecker
Length: 7.5-9.1 in
Weight: 2.0-3.2 oz
Wingspan: 16.5 in
Though Red-headed Woodpeckers were once abundant throughout the eastern United States, their numbers have drastically declined and they’re no longer so common. However, they’re still found year-round in Maryland. These woodpeckers have vibrant, red heads, black patches on their shoulders and backs, and bright white underparts.
Their colorful plumage makes them easily identifiable, as well as the drumming noise they make when hammering trees for food.
Unlike other woodpeckers, Red-headed Woodpeckers also hunt for insects in the air and consume other foods like beech nuts and acorns. They’ll even store extra rations in tree cavities and holes to last them throughout the winter. They’re one out of only four other North American woodpeckers that share this behavior.
2. Red-Bellied WoodPecker
Length: 9.4 in
Weight: 2.0-3.2 oz
Wingspan: 13.0-16.5 in
Look for Red-bellied Woodpeckers in various woodlands and forests, including those of both young and old hardwood deciduous trees and pines. They’re found year-round in Maryland and their numbers may be slowly increasing.
This could be due to their adaptability in different environments and clim