Downy Woodpecker

Types of Woodpeckers Acorn Woodpecker Gila Woodpecker Gilded Flicker Northern Flicker Red-breasted Sapsucker Types of Woodpeckers Types of Birds

The Downy Woodpecker is the most common woodpecker in the United States. They are relatively small, about six inches tall, and have a black and white feather pattern on the back.

The male is characterized by a red patch on the crown. Females look similar, without the red patch.

They are relatively timid as a species. If you are calm in their presence, it is easy to walk within three feet of them as they feed or sit on a tree limb.

© 2005 Patricia A. Michaels.