Field Guide to Westford

Downy Woodpecker 

 

Picoides pubescens

Physical description:

Only male Downy woodpeckers have a small bright red dot on the back of their heads. They have short black bills and large heads in proportion to the rest of their bodies. Both male and females have white bodies and black wings speckled with white. White back, and black rump. They are approximately 6.75 inches from the base of their tail to the top of their head.

Habitat:

Deciduous forests and backyards throughout the U.S. and Canada year-round. 

Voice:

Series of small chirps. Or a small series of descending chirps, usually heard when taking off. 

For more information, we suggest visiting: 
http://www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/downy-woodpecker?gclid=CMf1upOI9sQCFWwV7AodPRQA-Q