Closer look at Minnesota's winter woodpeckers

Red-bellied

Like the red-headed woodpecker, this one likes collecting acorns. Look for a slight red patch on their bellies, a red nape or nape and crown, and barred wings.

Pileated

The largest one in this family, these woodpeckers sport a red-peaked head and a black body that can be more than a foot long.

Black-backed

With black feathers and a streak of golden yellow on its head, this northern Minnesota woodpecker has barred feathers on its sides and three toes.

Downy

The tiniest in the family, this little woodpecker has a small bill and streak of red on its head.

Red-headed

With its dramatic red head, this once dwindling species is returning with the help of restored habitats.

Hairy

Slightly larger than a downy and sporting a longer bill, it's easy to mix up these two.

Three-toed

A black-and-white barred back distinguishes this woodpecker from the similar black-backed woodpecker. Both favor burnt-out areas and infested pines.