Downy Woodpecker Watching in Oregon

Of all the varieties in the Woodpecker family found in Oregon, the Downy Woodpecker is among the most common. They live in a variety of habitats in the state all year round, though sometimes they'll move to a lower elevation during winter. The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest Woodpecker in North America, usually only 6 or 7 inches long. The Downy has a black and white striped face with a black tail, and the males have a distinctive red patch on the back of the head, while the females have no red markings. They typically eat insects they dig out of trees, as well as nuts and berries on occassion. The Downy Woodpecker is also found in some backyards in Oregon, as they'll eat suet from a bird feeding station if it's near their home.

Habitats for Downy Woodpeckers

Downy Woodpeckers bore out nests in dead trees and they prefer to live in deciduous forests. Their nest cavity is usually at least 5 feet off the ground, and often much higher. They are commonly found in the Tualatin National Wildlife Refuge among other places in the area, and the Downy Woodpecker is one of the species that actively breed in Oregon.

Best seasons to see Downy Woodpeckers in Oregon

The Downy Woodpeckers found in Oregon are mostly non-migratory so they can be found in fairly large numbers all year round, though conditions for the birder are best during summer.

Downy Woodpeckers in Oregon summary

Typical habitat: Heavily forested areas, living in dead trees
Seasons: All year round
Abundance: Common – species likely to be seen or heard in suitable habitat

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