Woodpeckers in Connecticut

Though one of the smallest states, Connecticut hosts an amazingly diverse range of wildlife, particularly birds. Among the avians, the colorful woodpeckers easily catch attention with their loud drumming sound. Seven native and one accidental woodpecker species live here.  

The most common in the state is also the smallest – the downy woodpecker measuring a meager 6.1 inches! The pileated woodpecker is the biggest, measuring a whopping 17.5 inches. Some of these birds are migratory, like the yellow-bellied sapsucker and red-headed woodpecker. They leave the state and head south to spend their winter. 

Woodpeckers in Connecticut (CT)

Different Types of Woodpeckers Found in Connecticut

NameIdentifying FeaturesWhere They Are Found in Connecticut
Downy WoodpeckerSmall, white belly and white spotsWooded habitats, gardens, and backyard feeders
Hairy WoodpeckerLarger than Downy, with a longer billWoodlands, forests, and suburban areas with trees
Northern FlickerBrown with black spots, red crescent on the napeOpen areas, fields, and wood edges with suitable foraging
Red-bellied WoodpeckerRed cap on the head and pale belly with faint streaksWooded areas, parks, and suburban neighborhoods
Yellow-bellied SapsuckerBlack and white with a yellowish bellyDeciduous and coniferous forests, especially during migration
Pileated WoodpeckerLarge size, black with white stripes, and red crestMature forests, especially in larger wooded areas
Black-backed WoodpeckerBlack back and white bellyConiferous forests in the northern parts, but sightings are rare
Red-headed WoodpeckerDistinctive red head and white bellyWoodlands, forests, and open country areas

The red-headed woodpecker is endangered in the state due to habitat loss caused by the removal of dead and decaying trees from wood lots for developmental work – sites these birds need to nest and raise their young. This is why they are considered one of the rarest breeding birds of Connecticut.

    • Subscribe our newsletter

    Enter your email here to stay updated with the animal kingdom

    Follow us on:

    © 2024 (Animal Spot). All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.