Preferred Seed:
Sunflower seed, Sunflower hearts, Peanuts, Suet
Description:
The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest woodpecker in North America and a frequent visitor to backyard feeders. These energetic birds climb tree trunks and branches searching for insects, and they readily stop by feeders for suet, sunflower seeds, and peanuts.
Feeder Type:
Suet, Platform, Hopper
Nesting:
Downy Woodpeckers excavate small nesting cavities in dead or decaying tree branches. Both parents help carve the cavity and raise the young.
Identification:
A small black and white woodpecker with a white back and spotted wings. Males have a small red patch on the back of the head, while females do not. The bill is short and stubby compared to larger woodpeckers.
Song Description:
A short descending whinny followed by sharp “pik” calls. Their drumming is softer and shorter than that of larger woodpeckers.
How to Attract:
• Offer suet or high energy seed blends
• Provide sunflower seeds or peanuts
• Install suet feeders on tree trunks or feeder poles
• Maintain trees and natural wood for foraging habitat
• Provide fresh water year round
Fun Fact:
Downy Woodpeckers often travel with flocks of chickadees, titmice, and nuthatches during winter while searching for food.
Residency:
Year round resident throughout most of the United States and southern Canada.
Region:
United States, Southern Canada
Range Map:
Range Map © Chirp Nook
Best Seed Blend For
Downy Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker
