Most common and widespread of North American woodpeckers; black and white; males have a red spot on back of their heads. Downies look like Hairy Woodpeckers except the bird and bill is smaller than the Hairy.

They nest in holes of dead trees and communicate by drumming rapid tapping on hollow branches. You will observe them searching bark or rotten wood for insects. They commonly visit feeders and feed on suet, nuts, fruits and corn.

Hanging a feeder from a tree branch or close to a tree trunk is optimal. Squirrel baffles are always recommended.

Downies are found throughout the United States and Canada.