Downy Woodpecker Picoides pubescens
This small woodpecker has white-spotted black wings and black and a white streaked face. It has a white back and under parts. The sturdy bill is about half as long as the head.
Eats a variety of insects, but prefers wood eating insects. Can be attracted to wild bird feeders with suet bird food and black oil sunflower seeds.
The male has a red patch on the back of its head while the female has a black patch on the back of her head.
During breeding season the male excavates a nest cavity in dead wood. Clutch will contain 4 to 5 white eggs and incubation takes 11 to 12 days. Very rarely will they occupy a birdhouse.
Trying to attract a Downy Woodpecker? Find out how.
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