20-25 cm (8-10") Uncommon. Boreal coniferous forests; especially in spruce-fir and dead trees in spruce bogs and burns.
Black-and-white barred back. Black head; barred sides; white underside. Male has a yellow crown; females lack this yellow.
Similar and more common Black-backed Woodpecker has a solid black back.
Usually shy and inconspicuous.
This bird is normally a permanent resident, but northern birds may move south and birds at high elevations may move to lower levels in winter.
Song: short sharp "kik" or "chik".