Day 12: Downy Woodpecker

GOTCHA !

This is not the greatest because I am shooting out the window ...

How do I know if this is a Hairy Woodpecker or a Downy?

The Downy’s bill is dainty and about one-third the length of the bird’s head. The Hairy’s bill is almost as long as the its head.

The Downy is a little over six inches tall, while the Hairy is about nine inches tall.

The Hairy’s outer tail feathers are all white; the Downy’s outer tail feathers are barred.

Also, the male Hairy’s red patch is often split in two, while the Downy’s is not.

Plus the Downy woodpeckers are more common and frequent suet feeders more often.

[Milanie]

Looks really nice enlarged

[Michelle]

Amazing capture, your so lucky to see one of these I've not seen one before

[JeannieC57]

@milaniet Thank you!

[JeannieC57]

@bigmxx They are frequently at our suet feeder. They literally find it hours after it's hung up.

[Jnadonza]

Nice

[JeannieC57]

@jnadonza Thank you for taking the time to look and comment!