Midwest · Central Flyway
Are There Lewis's Woodpeckers in South Dakota?
Yes, but uncommon — Lewis's Woodpeckers occur in South Dakota mainly from January to September. Melanerpes lewis · Picidae
Is the Lewis's Woodpecker Found in South Dakota?
Lewis's Woodpeckers do occur in South Dakota, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat during the breeding season.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Lewis's Woodpeckers occur regularly are Colorado (about 450 miles away), Montana (about 520 miles away) and Utah (about 680 miles away).
Often mistaken for Lewis's Woodpeckers in South Dakota: Red-headed Woodpecker, Northern Flicker, Downy Woodpecker and Red-bellied Woodpecker — these occur regularly in South Dakota, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Lewis's Woodpecker.
Lewis's Woodpecker is a North American backyard bird.
In South Dakota, this species is classified as uncommon. It visits during the breeding season, typically spring through summer. The best months to observe this bird are January, March, June, July, August, September. Peak activity occurs in June, July, August.
Monthly Activity — Lewis's Woodpecker in South Dakota
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Lewis's Woodpecker in South Dakota
Other birds in South Dakota
Birds you might also encounter in South Dakota.
Lewis's Woodpecker in other states
Lewis's Woodpecker in South Dakota: Quick Facts
The Lewis's Woodpecker (Melanerpes lewis) is an uncommon bird in South Dakota. It is classified as a summer breeder in the state, falling within the Midwest region and the Central Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in South Dakota are January, March, June, July, August, September. For birders in Sioux Falls and throughout South Dakota, knowing the seasonal patterns of Lewis's Woodpecker can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in South Dakota using the related birds section.