Downy Woodpecker Young Male Bird Canada Postcard

The Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens) is often seen at feeders, and is especially fond of suet. The downy is the smallest woodpecker in North America. This original photo design is great for bird lovers, nature lovers, anyone who enjoys wildlife and our feathered friends. The woodpecker's summer diet consists of insects and grubs it finds in trees, sometimes seeds and fruit. If there's enough food available these birds stay through the winter and are frequent feeder visitors. This young fellow arrived about a month ago. His favourite food here is sunflower seeds with no shell. Sometimes I put the seeds in cracks in the wood as in this pic, where he's in the familiar vertical position. He also sits in the bird feeders looking for tasty treats. This little fella has grown a lot and is now a pro at hammering holes in wooden things, such as balcony railings and trees. Both the hairy and downy woodpeckers, who look similar, hang out with groups of diverse birds including nuthatches, chickadees and blue jays. These are friendly and curious birds, lively but less inclined to feed from your hand than chickadees. Original nature photography by M Sylvia Chaume, Canada. Happy Blessings!