Megan's Nature Nook
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Woodpeckers seem to be one of the easiest backyard birds to identify with their black and white coloration (with some red) and distinct behavior. But, at times it can be hard to tell the different species apart – especially Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers. These birds look almost identical with their black and white checkered wings, and facial patterns. If they’re next to each other they can be pretty easy to tell apart just by size, but what do you do when there is only one at your feeder? Here are a few things to look for to help you correctly identify a Downy vs. Hairy Woodpecker. General Size Downies are Down-sized and Hairies are HUGE Downy – 6 ½ inches Hairy – 9-13 inches, about the size of a Robin This is easy to tell when they are next to each other, but can be challenging if only one is present. Beak Length Again, the size saying applies here; Downy = Downsized, Hairy = HUGE Downy – beak is about 1/3 to half the length of their head, shorter; Dainty Hairy – beak is as long as the length of their head Outer Tail Feathers Downy – white outer tail feathers usually have some black on them making them appear like they have spots, or Dotted. (Most easily seen from below) Hairy – Completely white outer tail feathers With these few tips, you’ll easily be identifying Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers in no time! Now if you’re up for the challenge, try identifying just by sound. Believe it or not, you can even tell a species of woodpecker by its drumming, but for today let’s just stick with their main calls.
Call BirdNote has an interesting way of describing the different calls: Downy – "soft and downy, like a duvet." Another way to remember the Downy is the call goes Down in pitch, or decends Hairy – "loud and hairy, like a heavy metal band" Hear them for yourself on BirdNote’s Podcast (less than 2 mins). Hopefully these little fun sayings and letter connections (D’s for Downy, H’s for Hairy) will be helpful for you in the correct identification of Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers. To attract these two birds to your feeders try offering suet, peanuts, sunflower seeds, safflower seeds, and meal worms. Happy birding!
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