Black-backed Woodpecker vs Pileated Woodpecker

In short

The Black-backed Woodpecker and Pileated Woodpecker are both North American woodpeckers, but they differ significantly in size and plumage. The Black-backed Woodpecker is smaller with a sooty black back, while the Pileated Woodpecker is much larger with a distinctive red crest and black-and-white facial markings.

Identification tips

• Size: Look for the larger size of the Pileated Woodpecker.
• Plumage: Note the Black-backed Woodpecker's yellow crown patch (males) and sooty black back versus the Pileated's red crest.
• Habitat: Consider the habitat; burned forests suggest Black-backed, while mature forests suggest Pileated.
• Calls: Listen for the complex Scream-Rattle-Snarl of the Black-backed versus the loud drumming of the Pileated.

Size

The Pileated Woodpecker is significantly larger than the Black-backed Woodpecker, making size a reliable field mark.

Plumage

The Black-backed Woodpecker has a sooty black back and, in males, a yellow crown patch. The Pileated Woodpecker has a striking red crest and black-and-white facial markings, with a mostly black body.

Behaviour

The Black-backed Woodpecker is often found in burned forests, foraging on charred trees, while the Pileated Woodpecker is known for its powerful excavations in large trees and snags.

Habitat

The Black-backed Woodpecker is closely associated with recently burned forests, whereas the Pileated Woodpecker inhabits mature forests with large trees, often in unburned areas.

Voice

The Black-backed Woodpecker has a distinctive Scream-Rattle-Snarl call, while the Pileated Woodpecker's calls are loud and include a series of drumming sounds.