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Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens)

© Dan Sudia

Length: 5-6.5 in.
Habitat: woodlands, orchards, suburbs, parks.

The little Downy is probably our most familiar woodpecker. In winter it readily takes suet from bird feeders and often joins the mixed bands of small birds that roam through the woods, each species feeding in a different manner but all deriving protection from the wariness of the flock. The larger Hairy Woodpecker (Picoides villosus) is more of a forest dweller than the Downy. Both "downies" and "Hairies" are named for their feathers, probably the short ones around their nostrils.