The black-backed woodpecker, also known as the Arctic three-toed woodpecker, is a medium-sized woodpecker inhabiting the forests of North America.
Region
Boreal and montane North America
Typical Environment
Found across boreal Canada and Alaska, and south in the western mountains and the Upper Great Lakes region. Strongly associated with coniferous forests, especially spruce, pine, and fir. Most abundant in recently burned stands where wood-boring beetles surge after fire. It may persist for several years in post-fire habitats before numbers decline as prey diminishes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 3000 m
Climate Zone
Continental
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black-backed woodpecker specializes in recently burned conifer forests, where it exploits outbreaks of wood-boring beetles. Its soot-black back provides camouflage against charred bark. It has only three toes instead of the usual four in most woodpeckers. Males show a small yellow crown patch that females lack.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
undulating flight with short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending territories in suitable forest patches. Monogamous pairs excavate nest cavities in dead or fire-killed trees; both sexes incubate and feed the young. They often remain in post-fire areas for several years while prey remains abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp pik or kik notes and dry rattling calls. Drumming is a steady, even roll of moderate length used for communication and territory advertisement.
