Lewis's Woodpecker vs Arizona Woodpecker
Melanerpes lewis versus Leuconotopicus arizonae
Play a quiz with Lewis's Woodpecker and Arizona Woodpecker
Lewis's Woodpecker
Arizona Woodpecker
In short
Lewis's Woodpecker and Arizona Woodpecker can be distinguished by their plumage and behavior. Lewis's Woodpecker has a unique dark greenish-black back and pinkish belly, while Arizona Woodpecker is more uniformly brown with white spots on the wings. Lewis's Woodpecker is known for its aerial maneuvers, unlike the more secretive Arizona Woodpecker.
Identification tips
Look for the pinkish belly and red face of Lewis's Woodpecker. Note the aerial behavior of Lewis's Woodpecker, which is uncommon in woodpeckers. Arizona Woodpecker's brown plumage with white spots is distinctive. Consider the habitat: Lewis's in open woodlands, Arizona in mountainous areas.
Size
Lewis's Woodpecker is generally larger than the Arizona Woodpecker.
Plumage
Lewis's Woodpecker has a dark greenish-black back, pinkish belly, and a red face. In contrast, the Arizona Woodpecker is brown with white spots on the wings and lacks the red face.
Behaviour
Lewis's Woodpecker often engages in gliding and aerial maneuvers, especially when catching insects. Arizona Woodpecker is more secretive, particularly during nesting.
Habitat
Lewis's Woodpecker is found in open woodlands and areas with scattered trees, while Arizona Woodpecker inhabits Madrean woodlands and is often associated with mountainous regions.
Voice
Both species have distinct calls, but specific vocal differences are not well-documented in the provided sources.