Length: 6.5 - 7 inches | Wingspan: 11 - 12 inches | Seasonality: All Seasons |
ID Keys: Small size, short stubby bill, black spots on white outer feathers of tail, relatively quiet call. Males have a red patch on the back of their heads. |
The
Downy is the smallest Woodpecker in North America. It's found in
residential areas and parks throughout the state, and very readily will
forage at home feeders. During the winter, they are often found with
mixed flocks including other species such as chickadees and nuthatches. Note the very similar markings of the Hairy
Woodpecker, which has a larger size and longer bill. A male is
pictured to the right. Females are similar, but don't have the red
patch on the back of the head (see photos at bottom of the page).
2) WhatBird - Downy Woodpecker
3) Audubon Guide - Downy Woodpecker
Click on the map below for a higher-resolution view |
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South Dakota Status: Common permanent resident throughout the state. |