Order: Piciformes, Family: Picidae
Downy Woodpecker
Dryobates pubescens
A small, compact woodpecker with a relatively short, straight bill. It has a checkered black-and-white upper body, white underparts, and distinct white spots on its black wings.
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Plumage & appearance
Black and white patterned plumage with a white back stripe. Males have a small red patch on the back of the head, which females lack. Juveniles have a somewhat washed-out appearance with reddish or brownish caps.
Key field marks
Small size, short chisel-like bill, checkered black and white back, and white outer tail feathers barred lightly with black.
Size & weight
Length: 14-17 cm (5.5-6.7 in), Wingspan: 25-30 cm (9.8-11.8 in), Weight: 20-30 g (0.7-1.1 oz).
Voice — call & song
A sharp, descending series of notes (whinny) and a high-pitched 'pik' call, along with drumming displays.
Diet & foraging
Primarily insects (beetles, ants, caterpillars), supplemented by seeds, berries, and suet, foraging by hammering and probing tree bark.
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed forests, woodlots, orchards, parks, and suburban backyards.
Migration & movement
Permanent resident; non-migratory throughout its range.
Nesting & breeding
Excavates a new cavity in dead wood or dead limbs of living trees each year. Lays 3 to 8 white eggs, incubated by both parents.
Similar species
Hairy Woodpecker. The Downy is much smaller with a noticeably shorter bill relative to head size; the Hairy has a larger, dagger-like bill.
Ecological significance
Acts as a primary controller of insect pests like wood-boring beetles and caterpillars, and creates tree cavities that are later used by secondary cavity nesters.
Conservation status
IUCN Least Concern with a stable or increasing population trend.
Observation tips
Easily attracted to backyard suet feeders, particularly during fall and winter. Listen for their sharp, flat pik calls or rhythmic drumming.
Interesting facts
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker species in North America.
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