Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Sphyrapicus varius
They are considered a keystone species because the sap wells they drill provide a vital food source for over 35 other species, including hummingbirds and butterflies.
- Scientific name
- Sphyrapicus varius
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Chordata › Aves › Piciformes › Picidae › Sphyrapicus
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- forest
- Habitat
- Deciduous and mixed forests, particularly those featuring birch, aspen, and maple trees.
- Diet
- Tree sap, inner bark (bast), insects attracted to sap, and wild fruits.
- Range
- Canada, Eastern United States, Central America, Caribbean
- Size
- Length: 18-22 cm; Wingspan: 34-40 cm
- Lifespan
- 6-9 years
- Active
- diurnal
- Threats
- Habitat loss due to deforestation, window collisions during migration, and the use of neonicotinoid pesticides.
- Safe to approach?
- Harmless and shy. Maintain a respectful distance of 15-20 feet to observe their unique drilling behavior without causing stress. If you find an injured bird, contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator; do not attempt to keep it as a pet.
The yellow-bellied sapsucker ( Sphyrapicus varius ) is a medium-sized woodpecker that breeds in Canada and the north-northeastern United States.
Photo: scaup, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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