Downy Woodpecker
Dryobates pubescens
The Downy Woodpecker is North America’s smallest woodpecker and a year-round Florida resident in wooded yards and parks.
The Downy Woodpecker is North America’s smallest woodpecker and a year-round Florida resident in wooded yards and parks.
A tiny black-and-white woodpecker with a short bill, white back patch, spotted wings, and white outer tail feathers marked with black. Males have a small red nape patch.
Moves along small branches and weed stalks, taps lightly on bark, and visits suet feeders. Pairs excavate cavities in dead or softened wood.
Harmless to people. Avoid trimming occupied nest trees or disturbing birds at cavity entrances.
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Active nests, eggs, adults, and young must not be taken or disturbed.
Habitat:
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Residential Areas
Area / Range:
Statewide
Diet:
Beetle larvae, ants, caterpillars, spiders, other insects, seeds, berries, and sap.
Behavior:
Moves along small branches and weed stalks, taps lightly on bark, and visits suet feeders. Pairs excavate cavities in dead or softened wood.
Daytime
Active Times:
Best time to see:
Morning in mature trees, woodland edges, orchards, and yards with suet feeders
Florida Native Status:
Native
Conservation Status:
Least Concern
Safety Level:
Safe to Observe
Safety Information:
Harmless to people. Avoid trimming occupied nest trees or disturbing birds at cavity entrances.
Benefits to Property:
Consumes insects hidden in bark and creates cavities later used by other small birds and wildlife.
Property Concerns:
Occasional drumming occurs on gutters or siding. Repeated pecking may signal insects or moisture-damaged wood.
Fun Fact:
Its small size lets it forage on thin branches and plant stems that larger woodpeckers cannot use easily.
Wildlife Laws:
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Active nests, eggs, adults, and young must not be taken or disturbed.
Identification:
A tiny black-and-white woodpecker with a short bill, white back patch, spotted wings, and white outer tail feathers marked with black. Males have a small red nape patch.