Hairy and Downy Woodpecker Identification

The hairy woodpecker (Picoides villosus) and the downy woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) are two very common, year-round residents at Hogsback Acre. These two woodpecker species can be difficult to distinguish from each other due to their similar markings, vocalizations, feeding behavior, and movements. Males of both species have a red patch of feathers on the back of the skull which the females lack.

Despite these similarities, there are three ways to distinguish between a hairy and a downy woodpecker.

• Size. The hairy woodpecker is significantly larger than the downy.

• Bill Length. The hairy woodpecker's bill is almost the same length as the bird's skull while the downy's bill appears dainty in comparison and is less than 1/3 the length of the bird's skull.

• Tail Feathers. The white feathers on the edges of the hairy woodpecker's tail are completely white and devoid of markings while the same feathers on the downy are white with several black bars that are readily apparent when the bird takes flight.