Downy Woodpecker, Picoides pubescens

Downy Woodpecker male

I get Downy Woodpeckers on my feeders all year round yet I never really get tired of seeing them. If I'm outside near the feeders when one is feeding, I often see it freeze, pretending to be part of the feeder or branches around it. They often let me get very close without flying away.

This one wasn't actually anywhere near my feeders but was nevertheless willing to let me get its picture before heading off. The male can be told from the female by the red patch on the back of the male's head. Its not terribly obvious in this shot, but if you look close enough you'll see it.

The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest of American woodpeckers, which contrasts strongly with the Pileated Woodpeckers I saw on a recent trip in Georgia! The woodpecker's feet and toes are different than other passerines and are designed to help them hang onto trees in positions that would otherwise be impossible. Woodpeckers use their tail for stability, propping it against the tree for support.