Woodpeckers in Delaware

Delaware is a hotspot for birdwatchers, thanks to around 400 species of birds that call it home. Among them, seven species are woodpeckers. Though a small proportion, they play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations and building nests that are reused by many mammals and other birds incapable of excavating nest cavities by themselves. They are a common sight in Delaware, no matter where you live.

Different Types of Woodpeckers Found in Delaware

Name	Identifying Features	Where They Are Found in Delaware
Downy Woodpecker	Small, white belly, and white spots	Wooded habitats, gardens, and backyard feeders
Hairy Woodpecker	Larger than Downy, with a longer bill	Woodlands, forests, and suburban areas with trees
Northern Flicker	Brown with black spots, red crescent on nape	Open areas, fields, and wood edges with suitable foraging
Red-bellied Woodpecker	Red cap on the head and pale belly with faint streaks	Wooded areas, parks, and suburban neighborhoods
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker	Black and white with yellowish belly	Deciduous and coniferous forests, especially during migration
Pileated Woodpecker	Large size, black with white stripes, and red crest	Mature forests, especially in larger wooded areas
Red-headed Woodpecker	Distinctive red head and white belly	Woodlands, forests, and open country areas

The most recognizable of all woodpeckers is the pileated woodpecker, with its large size (17.5 inches) and distinct coloration, resembling the real-life counterpart of Woody the Woodpecker. Another easily identifiable type is the red-headed woodpecker, sporting a bright red head and bold black and white markings on its body.