Red-breasted Sapsucker vs Red-headed Woodpecker

In short

The Red-breasted Sapsucker and Red-headed Woodpecker can be distinguished primarily by head coloration and habitat preference. The Red-breasted Sapsucker has a uniformly red head and breast, while the Red-headed Woodpecker features a striking, entirely red head with a contrasting white body and black back.

Identification tips

• Look for the uniform red head and breast of the Red-breasted Sapsucker versus the entirely red head of the Red-headed Woodpecker.
• Observe the white wing patches on the Red-headed Woodpecker, absent in the Red-breasted Sapsucker.
• Consider habitat: coniferous forests for Red-breasted Sapsucker, open woodlands for Red-headed Woodpecker.
• Listen for vocal differences: Red-headed Woodpecker has a more varied call.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Red-headed Woodpecker may appear slightly bulkier due to its broader wings and tail.

Plumage

The Red-breasted Sapsucker has a red head and breast with a mottled black and white back, while the Red-headed Woodpecker has a solid red head, white underparts, and a black back with white wing patches.

Behaviour

Both species exhibit typical woodpecker behavior, but the Red-headed Woodpecker is more likely to be seen catching insects in flight, a behavior less common in the Red-breasted Sapsucker.

Habitat

Red-breasted Sapsuckers are typically found in coniferous forests of the western United States, while Red-headed Woodpeckers prefer open woodlands and savannas in the eastern and central United States.

Voice

The Red-breasted Sapsucker's calls are less varied and more nasal compared to the Red-headed Woodpecker, which has a more varied repertoire including a harsh 'churr' sound.