What is the primary difference in head markings used to sex an adult Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in the field?
Answer
The color of the throat patch: red on the male, white on the female.
Sexual dimorphism in adult Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers is most clearly signaled by the coloration of the throat area during the breeding season. The adult male displays a brilliant red patch located just below the characteristic black-and-white striped pattern of the face. In sharp contrast, the adult female lacks this red coloration entirely in that corresponding area, displaying a plain white throat patch instead. Observing this specific feature provides the most rapid and reliable method for distinguishing the sex of a mature bird.
Related Questions
What characteristic feeding behavior defines the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker?Which physical characteristic is highly conspicuous, appearing as a distinct white block on the wings?What term describes the specialized foot arrangement of the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker for clinging to vertical surfaces?How does the general size of the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker compare when viewed alongside a Red-bellied Woodpecker?What is the primary difference in head markings used to sex an adult Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in the field?What plumage characteristic distinguishes juveniles from mature Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers?What anatomical feature, besides the feet, is critical for support when the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker clings to vertical surfaces?Where is the red coloration found on an adult male that helps clearly flag his sex, alongside the throat patch?Why should field observers often prioritize looking for sap wells over confirming the belly color for identification?How do the bill and overall build of the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker relate to other woodpeckers?