Cuban Green Woodpecker vs Lewis's Woodpecker

In short

The Cuban Green Woodpecker and Lewis's Woodpecker are distinct in both appearance and behavior. The Cuban Green Woodpecker is primarily green with a red cap, while Lewis's Woodpecker has a dark green back, pinkish belly, and a distinctive red face. Behaviorally, Lewis's Woodpecker is known for its unique flight style, often gliding and performing aerial maneuvers.

Identification tips

1. Look for the red cap and throat on the Cuban Green Woodpecker versus the red face and throat on Lewis's Woodpecker. 2. Note the pinkish belly of Lewis's Woodpecker. 3. Observe flight behavior: Lewis's Woodpecker often glides, unlike the Cuban Green Woodpecker. 4. Consider habitat: Cuban Green Woodpecker is in Cuba, Lewis's Woodpecker in western North America.

Size

Both species are medium-sized woodpeckers, but Lewis's Woodpecker tends to appear bulkier due to its broader wings and longer tail.

Plumage

The Cuban Green Woodpecker is predominantly green with a red cap and throat, while Lewis's Woodpecker has a dark green back, a pinkish belly, and a striking red face and throat. The contrast in plumage is a reliable field mark.

Behaviour

Lewis's Woodpecker is notable for its unique flight pattern, often engaging in prolonged glides and aerial maneuvers, unlike the more typical woodpecker flight of the Cuban Green Woodpecker.

Habitat

The Cuban Green Woodpecker is found in forested areas of Cuba, while Lewis's Woodpecker inhabits open woodlands and areas with scattered trees in western North America.

Voice

Vocalizations are not well-documented for the Cuban Green Woodpecker, while Lewis's Woodpecker's calls remind some observers of the Red-headed Woodpecker.