Red-naped Sapsucker
NameRed-naped Sapsucker
Common NameRed-naped Sapsucker
Scientific NameSphyrapicus nuchalis
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)37
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)49
Plumage DetailsAdults have a red crown and a distinctive red patch on the nape, bordered by black. They feature a prominent white stripe behind the eye, a black and white barred back, and a large white patch on the folded wing. Males have a red throat, while females have a white throat with a red patch.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, nasal 'queer' notes, often given in an irregular rhythm. They also produce a distinctive, irregular drumming pattern, typically a rapid burst of taps followed by a pause and a few more taps.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds in the Rocky Mountains and Great Basin region of western North America, from British Columbia south to Arizona and New Mexico. Winters in the southwestern United States and Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesRed nape, Red crown, White stripe behind eye, Prominent white wing patch, Black and white barred back, Rows of sap wells on trees
Description
The Red-naped Sapsucker is a medium-sized woodpecker known for drilling neat rows of holes in tree bark to feed on sap. It exhibits striking black, white, and red plumage, often found in mountain forests of western North America.
