The Williamson’s sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) is a captivating woodpecker that graces the mountainous landscapes of western North America, including the Thompson-Nicola region of British Columbia. This species is renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism. Males are a stunning black and white with a vibrant red throat, while females are more subdued in brown and white.

Habitat and Range

These birds are particularly fond of mature coniferous forests, especially those with Western Larch. They exhibit a fascinating behavior of drilling rows of small holes in tree bark to extract sap, a behavior that gives them their name. These sap wells not only provide a sugary treat but also attract insects, a primary food source.

Within the Thompson-Nicola region, Williamson’s Sapsuckers can be found in areas with suitable habitat, such as the higher elevations of the Fraser Canyon and the Monashee Mountains. These areas offer the necessary mature forests and insect populations to support these birds.

Williamson’s Sapsucker Audio

Threats

While their population within the region is relatively stable, they still face threats from habitat loss due to forestry activities and climate change. To ensure their long-term survival, conservation efforts are essential. These efforts include protecting old-growth forests, implementing sustainable forestry practices, and monitoring their populations. 

What You Can Do To Help

You can contribute to the conservation of Williamson’s Sapsuckers by reporting sightings to programs like eBird and the Conservation Data Centre. By understanding and appreciating these unique birds, we can help protect their future in the Thompson-Nicola region. 

Additional Resources

• Atlas of the Breeding Birds of British Columbia: Williamson’s Sapsucker 
• Recovery Strategy for the Williamson’s Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus thyroideus) in Canada  

Photo credit: Dario Taraborelli CCO