“More likely at this point in the breeding season is that this is a classic interior west Hairy Woodpecker that has worn and dirty feathers from many trips in and out of its nesting hole, both to excavate the hole and then to bring food to nestlings. Depending on the tree where its nest is located, there can be sap and resins that would end up staining the breast and other body feathers. I see something similar with Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers here in Maryland. By the time they have fledged their young, the adults are very worn and dirty compared to their bright, clean appearance in the late winter and early spring. The birds will molt after breeding and look much fresher again.”