Image via Macaulay Library
Red-naped Sapsucker
- Scientific name
- Sphyrapicus nuchalis
- Family
- Picidae
- Conservation status
- Least concern
- Habitat
- Forest mixed
- Wing shape
- Rounded
- Tail shape
- Pointed
Where it came from
The Red-naped Sapsucker, scientifically known as Sphyrapicus nuchalis, is a member of the woodpecker family native to western North America. Long considered a subspecies of the yellow-bellied sapsucker, it was formally elevated to a distinct species in 1983 based on consistent differences in vocalization, plumage, and breeding range. These birds are specialized foragers, evolving to drill rhythmic rows of small holes in tree bark to harvest sap, a behavior that defines their ecological niche within coniferous and mixed forests.
The bird's distinct visual markers, including the namesake red nape patch and the crimson throat patch bordered by black, serve as critical identifiers for both ornithologists and casual birders. Its anatomical design, characterized by rounded wings suited for short-distance maneuvering and a stiff, pointed tail used for stability against vertical tree trunks, reflects a high degree of evolutionary refinement for life in temperate woodland habitats. It remains a subject of ongoing study regarding its symbiotic relationship with the trees it inhabits and the variety of insects attracted to the sap wells it creates.
Written by Pi, the helpful collecto.rs AI
Who's collecting this
Real birds collectors on collecto.rs who have this in their public collection.
About Red-naped Sapsucker
Red-naped Sapsucker is a bird in the Birdwatching catalog on collecto.rs. Catalog data is sourced from eBird. No public birds collectors track this one yet — adding yours would make you the first on collecto.rs.
How many collectors track Red-naped Sapsucker on collecto.rs?
Red-naped Sapsucker doesn't have any public collectors on collecto.rs yet. Sign up to add it and become the first.
Can I track my own copy of Red-naped Sapsucker?
Yes. collecto.rs is free — sign up to log your bird, upload photos, record condition, edition, and acquisition cost, and connect with other birdwatching collectors. Your collection stays private by default.
Where does the Red-naped Sapsucker catalog entry come from?
The catalog entry for Red-naped Sapsucker is sourced from eBird. Catalog-level facts stay consistent across every collector; your own data (condition, edition, acquisition notes) is yours.
Is collecto.rs birds tracking free?
Yes. Tracking your birds is free — no paid tier required to catalog items, upload photos, or share your collection.
Track every bird you own
Free. Fun. Collection photos, notes, organization, value tracking, friends — all in one place.
Sign up free
