Downy Woodpecker and Hairy Woodpecker

Downy and Hairy woodpeckers are widely distributed across North America. Both commonly visit feeder areas where they feed on suet and sometimes seeds. These woodpeckers are the only common woodpeckers that show a vertical white stripe on the back. Males of both species have a red patch on the back of the head. Juveniles may have a wash of red, orange, or (rarely) yellow on the crown.

Overall size and bill size and shape are the most useful characters for distinguishing the two species in the field. There are subtle plumage features that can also be useful when a good closeup view is possible.