White-headed Woodpecker (Leuconotopicus albolarvatus) is in the Woodpeckers family (Picidae). Across the U.S., iNaturalist users have logged 4,714 research-grade observations of it in our sample, peaking in June.
Seasonal pattern in the national data: summer visitor / breeder. Counts also reflect when people are out photographing, so compare months within a state rather than across states.
When to photograph White-headed Woodpecker: observations by month (U.S.)
About White-headed Woodpecker
The white-headed woodpecker (Leuconotopicus albolarvatus) is a non-migratory woodpecker that resides in pine forests of the mountains of western North America.From Wikipedia via iNaturalist — article, CC BY-SA.
White-headed Woodpecker by state
| State | Observations | Peak month | Main season |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | 3,950 | June | May–Oct |
| Oregon | 307 | June | May–Aug |
| Nevada | 219 | August | Jan–Nov |
| Washington | 202 | May | Mar–Aug |
| Idaho | 36 | June | May–Jul |
Main season = months with at least 30% of the state's peak-month count.
Related birds (Woodpeckers)
Downy Woodpecker
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Northern Flicker
Pileated Woodpecker
Acorn Woodpecker
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker
Hairy Woodpecker
Red-headed Woodpecker
Photography tips
- Use a fast shutter (1/2000 s or faster) for birds in flight.
- Focus on the eye and shoot at the bird's eye level.
- Approach slowly and stop if the bird changes behavior; never bait or flush birds.
- Morning activity peaks in the first two hours after sunrise.
FAQ
When is the best time to photograph White-headed Woodpecker?
Nationally, June has the most observations, with the main season from May to October.
Where is White-headed Woodpecker most often seen?
The most observations come from California, Oregon, Nevada.