Pileated Woodpecker or American Crow?
Here's how to tell the difference
Pileated Woodpecker
American Crow
Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus
General appearance
The Pileated Woodpecker is a large bird approximately the size of a crow, measuring about 17 inches (43 cm). Characterized by a primarily black body, its most distinctive feature is a vibrant red crest. In flight, this bird's white under-wings flash conspicuously. With broad rounded wings and a multi-pointed, wedge-shaped tail, these woodpeckers possess a striking appearance.
Male vs female
There are subtle differences in coloration between male and female Pileated Woodpeckers. Specifically, both have a red crest but the males exhibit a red forehead and mustache while in female counterparts these parts are black. This is a key identifier determining the sex of these birds.
Juvenile
Juvenile Pileated Woodpeckers largely resemble adults in coloration though typically less vivid. As they mature, the coloration deepens, becoming more pronounced and vibrant. It is important to observe closely for these nuanced changes in plumage when birdwatching in the wild.
Size
15.7 - 19.3 in/8.8 - 12.3 oz
There's more to learn about Pileated Woodpecker
View full detailsAmerican Crow
Corvus brachyrhynchos
General appearance
The American Crow is a bird measuring 17-21 inches, or 43-53 centimeters, in length. It is easily identifiable by its complete black pigmentation and robust beak. Characteristic tail is rather short, ending in a shape close to a square when not in flight. In flight, the wings take a broad, fingered yet rounded shape. This species is noticeably larger compared to other members of the blackbird family.
Male vs female
Males and females are monomorphic, meaning they share similar appearances. Both sexes show the same strong all-black coloration from beak to feet and also share the same size, making it difficult to differentiate between them based on visual characteristics alone. They are both larger than other members of the blackbird family.
Juvenile
Juvenile crows bear a resemblance to the adults but can be identified by their slightly different voices and shapes. However, as they mature, these differences become less recognizable, and they assume full characteristics of the adults.
Size
16.9 - 20.9 in/11.1 - 20.3 oz
There's more to learn about American Crow
View full detailsHow to tell the Pileated Woodpecker from the American Crow
Visual differences
The Pileated Woodpecker and American Crow are both about 17-21 inches in length, but the crow is heavier. The woodpecker has a vibrant red crest and primarily black body with white under-wings in flight. Its beak is long relative to its head. In contrast, the crow is uniformly black, with a stout, robust beak, and a square-shaped tail. Woodpeckers have a wedge-shaped tail, while crows have broad, rounded wings with a fingered appearance in flight. The woodpecker’s red crest is the most striking difference from the crow's all-black appearance.
Key differences and behavior
The Pileated Woodpecker and American Crow exhibit distinct behaviors in various aspects. The Pileated Woodpecker, known for its powerful bill, prefers mature forests, using its chisel-like beak to excavate large nests in trees or utility poles, and relies heavily on insects like ants for food. In contrast, the intelligent American Crow thrives in diverse habitats, including towns, and is omnivorous, eating anything from insects to garbage. During courtship, woodpeckers display visually striking maneuvers, while crows engage in communal and bonding behaviors, with offspring from previous years assisting in nesting. The woodpecker's drumming and loud calls contrast with the crow's use of tools and social communication. Both species build nests high above ground, but crows construct more elaborate nests using a variety of materials. These behavioral differences help distinguish them in the field.
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