Along with Yellow-bellied and Red-naped Sapsuckers, this species is part of a complex of three closely related species. Red-breasted Sapsucker is found along the West Coast. Upperparts are largely black, with minimal buffy barring on the back of northern birds, and more extensive whitish barring on the southern subspecies. Both subspecies have white barring on the flight feathers, and a long white bar on the folded wing. The entire head and upper breast are red, with a white tuft of nasal bristles. On southern birds, this white extends into the malar region. As the red feathers wear, southern birds may begin to show a dark and light head pattern similar to that of Red-naped Sapsucker. The lower breast and belly are whitish with a yellow wash. Dusky streaks run along the sides and flanks. Juveniles are more brownish overall. Red head and breast feathering is acquired by September.

Length: 20 (cm) Wingspan: 41 (cm)

Voice:

Call is a descending chee-er. Drum starts with a short rapid series of beats, followed by two slower series of three beats.

Habitat:

Coniferous and mixed forests, riparian woods, open woods.

Behavior:

Drills rows of small holes, known as sap wells, in tree trunks and branches. Will often feed on the same tree or small group of trees for several consecutive days.

Feeding:

Eats sap that accumulates in the sap wells. Gleans and flycatches for insects. Also eats fruit and buds.