The Downy Woodpecker
One Feather at a Time — Ep. 9
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America, but it’s surprisingly easy to spot. I usually see them on tree trunks or feeder poles, tapping away or darting between branches. They’re black and white with a checkered pattern on the wings, and males have a small red patch on the back of the head.
Downy Woodpecker (M)
They’re year-round residents in most of Canada and often show up in wooded areas, parks, and quiet trails. I tend to find them near dead trees or branches, where they forage for insects and larvae hidden in the bark. They also feed on seeds and berries, especially in winter. Their drumming is short and sharp, and they use it to mark territory or communicate. It’s not as loud as larger woodpeckers, but once you know the sound, it’s easy to pick out. They also make a soft whinnying call that trails off at the end.
Downies nest in tree cavities, usually in dead wood. I’ve seen them working on a nest hole for days, taking turns chiseling out the space. They’re cavity nesters, so they’ll also use old woodpecker holes or natural crevices if available. They’re often confused with Hairy Woodpeckers, which look similar but are larger and have a longer bill. Once I started paying attention to size and proportions, it got easier to tell them apart.
