About Picoides dorsalis S.F.Baird, 1858
Taxonomic Naming
This species, the American three-toed woodpecker, is a woodpecker with a scientific name of Picoides dorsalis S.F.Baird, 1858.
Length and Wingspan
It measures 21 to 23 cm (8.3 to 9.1 inches) in length, and has a wingspan of 37 to 39 cm (14.6 to 15.3 inches).
Weight
On average, males weigh 58.3 g (2.06 oz), while females are slightly smaller, with an average weight of 52 g (1.8 oz).
Lifespan
The maximum recorded lifespan of this woodpecker in the wild is 6 years.
Similar Species
It closely resembles the also three-toed black-backed woodpecker.
Former Taxonomic Classification
Until recently, it was classified as the same species as the Eurasian three-toed woodpecker, P. tridactylus.
General Adult Plumage
For adult individuals, the head, wings, and rump are black, and the plumage from the throat to the belly is white.
Detailed Plumage Markings
The flanks are white with black barring, the back is white with black barring, and the tail is black, with its white outer feathers marked by black barring.
Male Sexual Dimorphism
Adult males have a yellow cap.
