Downy Woodpecker
Dryobates pubescens
Physical Characteristics
Size
5.5-6.7 inches
Wingspan
9.8-11.8 inches
Weight
0.7-1 oz
Plumage
Black and white, males with small red patch on back of head
Distinctive Features
Black and white
Natural History & Behavior
🌳 Habitat
Woodlands, parks, suburbs, orchards
🍽️ Diet
Insects, especially wood-boring beetles, also seeds and berries
🦅 Behavior
Drums on trees, forages on small branches, frequent feeder visitor
🗺️ Migration Pattern
Non-migratory resident
🎵 Sounds
Descending whinnying call, drums on trees
🛡️ Conservation Status
Least Concern
Fun Facts
Downy Woodpeckers have adapted well to their environment
Conservation status: Least Concern
Average size: 5.5-6.7 inches
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Downy Woodpecker sound like?
Downy Woodpeckers make Descending whinnying call, drums on trees. These vocalizations are used for communication, territory defense, and attracting mates.
Where do Downy Woodpeckers live?
Downy Woodpeckers inhabit woodlands, parks, suburbs, orchards. Non-migratory resident
What do Downy Woodpeckers eat?
The diet of Downy Woodpeckers consists primarily of insects, especially wood-boring beetles, also seeds and berries. They forage using various techniques depending on their habitat.
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