The Hairy Woodpecker is a distinctive bird with black and white feathers that contrast with the greenery of North American forests. The males have a small red patch on the back of their heads. 

It is larger than the Downy Woodpecker and has a long, dagger-shaped beak well-suited for clinging to tree trunks. 

This species is adaptable to various habitats, including dense forests, open woodlands, parklands, and suburban areas, as long as there are trees. 

This type of woodpecker feeds on various insects, including wood-boring beetles, ants, and caterpillars. Its long, barbed tongue allows it to extract insects hidden deep within tree trunks, which helps control pest populations.