South · Central Flyway
Are There Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers in Texas?
Yes, but uncommon — Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers occur in Texas mainly from January to December. Sphyrapicus varius · Picidae
Is the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker Found in Texas?
Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers do occur in Texas, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat in winter.
Where to see them instead: the nearest states where Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers occur regularly are Oklahoma (about 290 miles away), Louisiana (about 380 miles away) and Arkansas (about 420 miles away).
Often mistaken for Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers in Texas: Downy Woodpecker, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Pileated Woodpecker and Northern Flicker — these occur regularly in Texas, so compare them carefully before concluding you saw a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker.
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker is a North American backyard bird.
In Texas, this species is classified as uncommon. It is primarily a winter visitor to Texas. The best months to observe this bird are January, February, March, October, November, December. Peak activity occurs in January, December.
Monthly Activity — Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Texas
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Texas
Other birds in Texas
Birds you might also encounter in Texas.
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in other states
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in Texas: Quick Facts
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) is an uncommon bird in Texas. It is classified as a winter visitor in the state, falling within the South region and the Central Flyway migration corridor.
The best months to spot this species in Texas are January, February, March, October, November, December. For birders in Houston and throughout Texas, knowing the seasonal patterns of Yellow-bellied Sapsucker 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 Texas using the related birds section.