Downy Woodpecker
Picoides pubescens



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play call

The song or call above is in .mp3 format.  You will need an mp3 player in order to listen.  If you do not have an mp3 player you can download one.  Click on the picture below.  It's free and works great!

Field Marks
  • Very short bill
  • Mostly black head set off by broad white eye line 
  • Black nape
  • Black wings with white spotting on coverts and flight feathers
  • White under parts
  • White back
  • Black tail with white outer tail feathers barred with black
  • Male has a red patch on back of head

Habitat

Common almost anywhere there is trees (except the dry southwest), even city parks and suburbs.  Forages on tree trunks and sometimes gleans from branches and leaves.  Will come to feeders for suet.

Status

The Downy Woodpecker is a common permanent resident in the Atlanta area.