Woodpeckers in Minnesota

Most of Minnesota’s woodpeckers are non-migratory. The downy, hairy, and red-bellied woodpeckers are year-round residents and common during winter. The pileated woodpecker and northern flicker also breed and overwinter in the state but are less common in the colder months. But the scarcest species during this season are the red-headed woodpecker and yellow-bellied sapsucker, as most of the population migrates south. It is the same with the northern flicker. The drumming calls of the birds in mid- to late winter signal warmer months ahead and spread cheer among the Minnesotans.

Different Types of Woodpeckers Found in Minnesota

Name	Identifying Features	Where They Are Found in Minnesota
Downy Woodpecker	Small size, black wings with white spots	Common throughout the state
Hairy Woodpecker	Similar to Downy but larger	Common in wooded areas and forests
Northern Flicker	Brownish body with black markings	Open areas, fields, and yards
Red-bellied Woodpecker	Red cap on the head	Woodlands, suburbs, and parks
Pileated Woodpecker	Large, striking red crest and black body	Forested regions and woodlands
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker	Yellow belly and red throat	Wooded areas with sap-rich trees
Red-headed Woodpecker	Bright red head and black wings	Woodlands, open areas, and suburbs
American Three-toed Woodpecker	Three-toed feet and black back	Occasional in northern forests
Black-backed Woodpecker	Black back and white undersides	Rare, mainly in northern forests
Lewis’s Woodpecker	Pinkish-red belly and gray collar	Rare and occasional sightings in the state
Williamson’s Sapsucker	Black back and yellow belly	Rare in coniferous and mixed forests
Acorn Woodpecker	White face and throat, black cap, and red patch	Extremely rare and occasional sightings

FAQs

Q. Are woodpeckers protected in Minnesota?

Ans. The federal North American Migratory Bird Act protects Minnesota’s woodpeckers. It is illegal to harm, trap, or kill a woodpecker by way of shooting or any other means in the state. The nesting birds should also not be harassed by law. Having said that, if you are concerned by unsightly damage to your property by the birds or are disturbed by their noise, you can take preventive measures without causing them any harm.