Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides borealis) - 25May2017 & 28Jan2017

Hairy Woodpeckers are fairly easy to confuse with Downy Woodpeckers but there are a few field marks that that distinguish them even when not considering overall size which can be misleading.  I have had better photos than the one below, but I like this one as it nicely shows the marks.  Note the spread tail feathers show no spots in the outer white area.  Also, the bill is nicely framed here and is obviously larger in proportion to the head compared with a Downy.  This particular female and its mate has stuck around for the summer and most likely has a nest.  Carolina Beach State Park.

And another from Carolina Beach State Park in January of the same year, this time the male.