Downy Versus Hairy Woodpeckers

We have discussed earlier that the downy woodpeckers and the hairy woodpeckers are differentiated almost solely by size. Their coloring and markings are nearly identical. But, the downy is 6” and the hairy is 9” in length.

In the Colvin Run Habitat, many downy woodpeckers are can be seen in any one hour period. The hairy are far less frequent.

These two pictures of these two woodpeckers on the same suet feeder allow a side by side comparison. Clearly, you can see the size difference. Of course, the smaller downy is a male (red spot on back of neck) and larger hairy is a female. Amazing what you can do with today’s modern photograph software.