Whether you are new to bird watching or an old pro, there’s always something new to learn about Downy woodpeckers. Check out these 24 interesting facts about the Downy to learn all about these common woodpeckers.
Interesting facts about Downy woodpeckers
Downy woodpeckers are often considered the most common woodpecker in eastern North America. With their bold black and white coloring and tiny stature, they are a memorable sight in many forests and suburban areas. You may also recognize them from backyard feeders, where they are often frequent visitors.
How much do you know about this populous species? Learn more with our 24 fun and interesting Downy facts, enjoy!
Description
1. Downy woodpeckers are the smallest woodpecker species found in North America. Their body length ranges from 5.5 to 7.1 inches. Their bill is fairly small for a woodpecker.
2. These woodpeckers have bold black and white coloring. Their upper parts are black and under parts are white. They have a black head with large white stripe above and below the eye. The middle of their back is white, and their black wings have white spots.
3. Males and females have the same coloring, but males have a bright red patch on the back of their head while females do not.
4. The Downy is often confused with Hairy woodpeckers due to their nearly identical plumage. The Downy is smaller, has a shorter beak relative to their head size, and have black spots along their outer tail feathers.
5. There are some slight regional differences in their plumage. Those living in the west tend to be darker overall. Downies along the Pacific coast have a dingier brownish-gray coloring compared to the starker white of the eastern birds.
Habitat
6. Downy woodpeckers can be found throughout the United States, including parts of Alaska, as well as Canada.
7. The only places where Downy’s are noticeably absent are the deserts of the U.S. southwest and the tundra of far northern Canada.
8. The Downy is considered a “resident” bird in that it does not migrate with the seasons. They can be found in forested areas (with a preference for deciduous trees), orchards, parks and suburbs.
Diet and Feeding
9. Downy’s are the most likely species in the woodpecker family to visit backyard bird feeders. Out of the 17 North American woodpecker species, some won’t visit feeders at all, while others will only rarely. Downy’s however, seem to really enjoy backyard feeders and will show up readily.
10. Downy’s will eat a variety of foods at your feeder