Downy Woodpecker

Dryobates pubescens

The downy woodpecker is a species of woodpecker, the smallest in North America. Length ranges from 14 to 18 cm. Downy woodpeckers primarily live in forested areas throughout the United States and Canada, with the exception of deserts in the southwest and the northern tundra.

A male Downy Woodpecker, in Poquott, Long Island, NY. Photo shared on Wikipedia by Wolfgang Wander.
A male Downy Woodpecker, in Poquott, Long Island, NY. Photo shared on Wikipedia by Wolfgang Wander.
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Community Sightings

Recent observations from the iNaturalist community

Downy Woodpecker observed by galton
Oct 17, 2026
Pacific Spirit Regional Park, 5495 Chancellor Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6T 1E4, Canada
bygalton
Research Grade
· 2 IDs
Downy Woodpecker observed by cmcdivit
Oct 17, 2026
Indiana, US
byChris McDivitt
Research Grade
· 1 ID
Downy Woodpecker observed by annadeyle
Oct 17, 2026
Lost Spur Golf And Event Center, Eagan, MN, US
byAnna Deyle
Research Grade
· 1 ID
Downy Woodpecker observed by lilkirkles
Oct 17, 2026
Hemlock Gorge Trail, Perrysville, OH, US
byLilli☀️
Research Grade
· 1 ID
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