[cobirds] Re: Help ID subspecies of this Hairy Woodpecker

Another interesting comment about the smudgy coloring. Makes sense as we aren't too far from Waldo Canyon Fire burn area. Through the winter we've had a male and female Hairy Woodpecker visit our feeders.

"I think a more likely source of the sooty coloration is foraging in fire-killed conifers for bark beetles and wood boring beetles.  Such trees are also excavated for nest cavities."

On Friday, June 11, 2021 at 11:21:26 PM UTC-6 Joanie wrote:

Hairy Woodpecker ID question answered thanks to Jim N of Maryland.

"More likely at this point in the breeding season is that this is a classic interior west Hairy Woodpecker that has worn and dirty feathers from many trips in and out of its nesting hole, both to excavate the hole and then to bring food to nestlings.  Depending on the tree where its nest is located, there can be sap and resins that would end up staining the breast and other body feathers.  I see something similar with Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers here in Maryland.  By the time they have fledged their young, the adults are very worn and dirty compared to their bright, clean appearance in the late winter and early spring.  The birds will molt after breeding and look much fresher again."

Thanks, Jim!

On Friday, June 11, 2021 at 11:29:08 AM UTC-6 Joanie wrote:

We live in Colorado Springs close to the foothills. This Hairy Woodpecker was not the typical variety we see. This one had a very smudgy, gray front. We looked at our books and wondered if this was a Pacific variety. Thanks, and appreciate the help!

Joanie

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