Downy Woodpecker
Picoides pubescens
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About
The downy woodpecker is the smallest and most widespread woodpecker in North America. Its small size allows it to forage on thin branches and weed stems that larger woodpeckers cannot access. Downies often join mixed-species flocks in winter, benefiting from the extra vigilance of multiple species watching for predators.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Body Length | 16.0 cm | 6.3 in |
| Wingspan | 28.0 cm | 11.0 in |
| Weight | 27.0 g | 0.95 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Black and white plumage with a broad white stripe down the back. Black wings with white spots. Males have a small red patch on the nape.
Bill
Short, chisel-shaped, dark bill — noticeably shorter than the similar hairy woodpecker
Habitat & Range
Deciduous and mixed forests, orchards, parks, and suburban areas. The most common woodpecker at feeders in North America.
Geographic Range
North America from Alaska and Canada south through the United States, excluding the arid Southwest.
Diet & Feeding
Insects and larvae extracted from bark, supplemented with seeds, berries, and suet at feeders. Often forages on small branches and weed stems.
Conservation Status
Sound
Song
A sharp 'pik' or 'peek' contact call. Drums on resonant branches with a rapid, light tattoo — softer than larger woodpeckers. Also gives a high descending whinny 'keeer-keeer'.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Piciformes (Woodpeckers & Toucans) |
| Family | Picidae (Woodpeckers) |
| Genus | Picoides |
| Species | Picoides pubescens |
Names in Other Languages
| Language | Name |
|---|---|
| German | Dunenspecht |
| Spanish | Pico Pubescente |
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Downy Woodpecker eat?
Where does the Downy Woodpecker live?
Is the Downy Woodpecker endangered?
What does the Downy Woodpecker sound like?
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What order and family does the Downy Woodpecker belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Picidae family