The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America and can be identified by several distinct field marks. Here is an overview of the key identification features of this common backyard bird.
Size and Shape
At just 6-7 inches in length, the Downy Woodpecker is noticeably smaller than most other woodpeckers. It is only about half the size of a Hairy Woodpecker, which looks nearly identical. The Downy Woodpecker has a short tail and a petite but sturdy body. Its bill is small and chisel-like, an adaptation for excavating insects from wood.
Wings
In flight, the Downy Woodpecker exhibits a checkered black-and-white pattern on its wings. The wings are short and rounded, with white outer feathers and black inner feathers. This contrasting pattern allows keen observers to identify the bird even at a distance.
Plumage
The Downy Woodpecker’s plumage features a ladder-like pattern of black and white markings. The upperparts are mostly black with a broad white stripe down the center of the back. The head is boldly striped in black and white. The wings are checkered black and white.
Males and females look identical, both exhibiting the same distinct plumage patterns.
Head
The Downy Woodpecker has several subtle but important markings on its head that aid in identification:
- Black nape – There is a distinctive patch of black feathers on the nape of the neck.
- White stripe over the eye – A bold white stripe extends from the beak over the eye.
- Black stripe through the face – A thinner black stripe runs through the face below the white stripe.
- White patch behind the eye – There is a small white patch behind and below the eye.
- Red spot on nape (males only) – Adult males have a small red spot at the very back of the head where the black nape meets the white neck.
Beak
The Downy Woodpecker has a short, chisel-shaped beak that is perfect for drilling into wood and extracting insects. The beak is mostly black but with a pale base. It may appear lighter or duller based on wear and time of year.
Behavioral Marks
In addition to visual cues, the Downy Woodpecker exhibits behaviors that can help confirm its identification:
- Perches on small branches and tree trunks while foraging.
- Hops along branches and trunks rather than walking or running.
- Flits from perch to perch with a swooping, undulating flight.
- Drills into wood frequently in search of insects.
- Makes short, sharp, pik! call notes.
- Drums slowly and softly on resonant objects.
Similar Species
The Downy Woodpecker’s close cousin, the Hairy Woodpecker, poses the biggest challenge to identification. However, the Hairy is considerably larger with a longer, heavier bill. Other lookalikes include the Ladder-backed Woodpecker (in the southwest) and Nuttall’s Woodpecker (in California). All of these similar species can be confidently separated from the Downy by their larger size and subtle differences in plumage and range.
Range and Habitat
The Downy Woodpecker is non-migratory and a year-round resident across much of North America. Its range extends from southern Canada southward to Florida and the Gulf Coast. It is also common along the Pacific coast from British Columbia to Baja California. This widespread distribution makes it one of the most frequently encountered woodpeckers in backyards and parks.
The Downy Woodpecker inhabits open woodlands, particularly those containing dead and dying trees which harbor insect prey. It readily adapts to urban habitats and is a regular visitor to backyards and parks. It may be found in deciduous or coniferous forests at elevations up to 10,000 feet.
Feeding Behavior
The Downy Woodpecker uses its chisel-like bill to excavate a wide variety of arthropod prey from crevices in the bark and wood of trees. Flying insects like beetles and ants are gleaned from the bark surface as well as excavated from tunnel and galleries. They may also occasionally eat fruits, nuts, acorns, sap, and berries.
They are regulars at backyard suet and seed feeders. Oils and meat-based suet products are preferred, though they will sample nuts and sunflower seeds as well.
Nesting
The Downy Woodpecker nests in April-June. The nest is a hole excavated in a dead tree or limb. Entrance holes are only 1-2 inches across since the parents do not need to fit in the hole. 3-8 white eggs are laid and incubated for 12 days. Young fledge after 20-27 days and remain with the parents for up to 3 weeks after fledging.
Conservation Status
With an enormous range and steady population, the Downy Woodpecker is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Its adaptability to human landscapes has allowed it to actually increase in population in many areas.
Fun Facts
- The Downy Woodpecker’s scientific name is Dryobates pubescens, with its first formal description published by Linnaeus in 1766.
- Though small, it can peck up to 20 times per second!
- Pairs may remain together for multiple breeding seasons, or even life.
- They produce a weak drumming sound, mostly for communication rather than excavation.
- Special feathers cover their nostrils to keep out wood dust while excavating.
- They have exceptionally long tongues that extend behind the skull and help extract insects.
ID Tips
Here are quick bullet points for identifying a Downy Woodpecker:
- Tiny size, about 6-7 inches
- Black nape patch
- Bold white stripe over eye
- Checkered black-and-white wings
- Ladder-like black-and-white striped back
- Short chisel-shaped bill
- Males have small red spot on back of head
Conclusion
The Downy Woodpecker is one of the most widespread and familiar bird species in North America. Its diminutive size, striking black-and-white plumage, and habits of searching for insects on trunks and branches make it easily recognizable. Watch and listen for Downies on your next woodland hike or stroll through the neighborhood!
