Woodpeckers in Maine

While the populations of many species have declined, that of woodpeckers has increased steadily in the state. In November 2022, their numbers almost doubled from the previous year. The smallest and most common woodpecker calling the state home is the downy woodpecker, measuring 6.1 inches. On the other hand, the largest is the pileated woodpecker, measuring a whopping 17.5 inches!

Woodpeckers in Maine (ME)

Different Types of Woodpeckers Found in Maine

NameIdentifying FeaturesWhere They Are Found in Maine
Downy WoodpeckerSmall size, black wings with white spotsCommon throughout the state
Hairy WoodpeckerSimilar to Downy but largerCommon in wooded areas
Northern FlickerBrownish body with black markingsOpen areas, fields, and yards
Red-bellied WoodpeckerRed cap on the head and a black-and-white zebra pattern on the backWoodlands, suburbs, and parks
Pileated WoodpeckerLarge, striking red crest and black bodyForested regions and woodlands
Yellow-bellied SapsuckerYellow belly and red throatWooded areas with sap-rich trees
Red-headed WoodpeckerBright red head and black wingsOpen woodlands and prairies
Black-backed WoodpeckerBlack back and white undersidesRare, mainly in northern forests
American Three-toed WoodpeckerThree-toed feet and black backRare and mainly in northern forests

The first recorded sighting of the colorful and vibrant red-bellied woodpecker was in 1958. Then, the species mostly remained confined to the south of northern New England, But over the last twenty years, they have been moving northward. Their increasing numbers are leading to their range expansion in Maine. Over the past decade, they have been migrating to the state in large numbers for the summer breeding season.

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