

Hairy woodpeckers are markedly similar to downy woodpeckers, the predecessor on this list. So, although they are not common in the upper peninsula currently, there are more sightings up north as time goes on. However, as mentioned earlier, they have been observed to be more present each year in northern locations. Red-bellied woodpeckers are most common in the southern half of the lower peninsula. Where can this bird be seen in the state? If the weather gets too bitterly cold, they can be forced south, although they aren’t a migratory bird. Red-bellied woodpeckers are found throughout all seasons in Michigan. They are larger than average for a woodpecker species. In recent times, the range for red-bellied woodpeckers has stretched further to the north, allowing them to become more prominent in places like Michigan.Īlthough the males have red heads, try to refrain from confusing them with red-headed woodpeckers (mentioned previously on this list), their name and their markings do not seem to match at first glance. They like to dwell in wooded areas and even suburban communities, with the only prerequisite to their habitat being that they prefer deciduous trees. Males have red heads, and both genders of red-bellied woodpeckers have black and white striping on their backs that zig zag in random directions, much like that of a zebra. Red-bellied woodpeckers are a somewhat puzzling case to bird watchers because the red hue in their bellies is often unnoticeably faint. Michigan is a woodpecker haven due to its unique habitat and dietary offerings. In the spring, many Michigan residents and visitors can hear the trademark drumming noise that many woodpecker species will make to attract mates, and it is a signal of warmer weather to come. Two of the most common Michigan woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers and downy woodpeckers (also notable for their striking resemblance), can be found on forest trails and swampland throughout the coldest months. However, many woodpeckers do not migrate and are one of the few species that can keep a Michigan bird watcher busy in the winter season. Many Michigan residents enjoy searching for woodpeckers in the winter months, since many other animals will shelter or migrate for the cold Michigan winters. This allows a wide range of woodpeckers to find suitable habitats and feeding opportunities in Michigan. Michigan offers unique environments when compared with many other states, due to its dual peninsula setup and frontage on multiple Great Lakes.
