I enjoy seeing these pretty birds regularly during the winter months and on occasion during the rest of the year.

When you see a red spot on the back of its head, you know it is a male.

I checked to see if I can learn anything new about this woodpecker. They feed on insects, especially wood-boring insects. At feeders they eat suet and sunflower seeds.

They nest in a cavity in dead wood and will rarely accept a nest box.

They do drumming – loud, continuous, very rapid pecking on resonant surfaces such as dead tree stubs. This announces territory and attracts a mate during breeding season.

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You’ll find Downy Woodpeckers in open woodlands, particularly among deciduous trees, and brushy or weedy edges. They’re also at home in orchards, city parks, backyards and vacant lots.