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Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers are fairly small woodpeckers with stout, straight bills. The long wings extend about halfway to the tip of the stiff, pointed tail at rest. Often, sapsuckers hold their crown feathers up to form a peak at the back of the head.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Downy Woodpecker; slightly smaller than a Hairy Woodpecker.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 7.1-8.7 in (18-22 cm)
      • Weight: 1.5-1.9 oz (43-55 g)
      • Wingspan: 13.4-15.8 in (34-40 cm)