What is black and white and red all over? In your backyard—a Downy Woodpecker!
This small woodpecker is common at backyard feeders all over the US and Canada, which makes it a perfect choice for Beak of the Week during National Bird Feeding Month!
Common Name: Downy Woodpecker
Latin Name: Picoides pubescens
Range: Found all over the United States and Canada year-round.
Habitat: Open woodlands, parks, gardens, and backyards!
Diet: Mainly insects. Though, also eats berries and grains.
Conservation Status: Least Concern.
One of the best ways to attract Downy Woodpeckers to your backyard is by including suet in your birding buffet! Suet, rendered beef or vegetable fat, comes in many flavors, shapes and sizes and easily fits into tailor made suet feeders. A helpful hint: select a flavor that includes peanuts, black sunflower oil, and/or insects, as these are favored food choices of the Downy Woodpecker!
Happy Birding!
Michelle