The Downy

The Downy Earl Plato
The Downy is small - only a sparrow-sized woodpecker.
He’s the smallest of our woodpeckers. He’s a black and white patterned bird. Very recognizable is the red patch on the nape of his neck. Listen for the sharp ‘pik-pik-pik’ sound. In sketching this bird I noticed its short beak.
Bird watching has become the second most passive sport after gardening in North America. Many have taken the next step -setting up bird feeders. The Henninghams of Bertie Road have many great feeders. That is where I saw my latest Downy woodpecker along with Blue jays, Cardinals and mourning doves a busy but delightful scene. Note: Once you start a feeder during these cold times be faithful in supplying seed.