Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens

Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens The Downy is the most common and familiar woodpecker in most of North America. In the West, it occurs primarily in groves along the banks of streams, although it is also a frequent visitor to city parks and feeders in residential areas. In fall, the Downy often travels with flocks of other little birds, mainly chickadees, kinglets, and nuthatches.

Identification Black and white above, white below; white cheeks intersected by black eyeline; thin mustache runs from bill to back of neck. Male has small red patch 011 nape.

Voice Call note a dull pik. Also gives a loud, descending rattle. Drums with its bill against bark, producing fast series of percussive noises.

Habitat Forests, woodlands, orchards, residential areas, and cit\ parks.

Range Alaska through most of southern half of Canada, and throughout most of United States; absent from treeless deserts. Some northern birds move south in winter.