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Downy Woodpecker

Downy Woodpeckers are the most common woodpecker species to visit a backyard bird feeder. They love suet feeders. They also enjoy sunflower seeds, millet, and peanuts.

Description:

  • Small Woodpecker with black and white pattern above and white underneath. They have a large white patch on back. 

  • Males have a red patch on the back of the head. 

  • Small dark bill.


Food:

  • Insects, seeds, fruits. Forages along tree trunk and branches. 


Habitat:

  • Prefers woodlands. 


Preferred Nest:

  • Nests in cavities.


Backyard Birdhouse:

  • Yes, they will use nest boxes designed for Carolina Chickadees.


More Facts:

  • Smallest Woodpecker in North America 

  • The Downy Woodpecker finds food that larger woodpeckers cannot, such as the insects living on or in weed stems.


Link for more information: Downy Woodpecker

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