White-headed Woodpecker Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A medium-sized woodpecker with a trim body, a short, sharp bill, rather long wings, and long tail.

    Relative Size

    Larger than a Downy Woodpecker, smaller than a Northern Flicker; similar in size to Hairy Woodpecker.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized
    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 8.3-9.1 in (21-23 cm)
      • Weight: 1.9-2.3 oz (55-65 g)

Regional Differences

Ornithologists recognize two subspecies: the widespread albolarvatus and the range-restricted gravirostris of the southern California mountains, which has a larger bill than albolarvatus.

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