Watercolor portrait of Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens)

Downy Woodpecker

Dryobates pubescens
Permanent resident throughout range in N… Open woodlands, particularly deciduous w… Common Drumming

Learn to identify the Downy Woodpecker by ear. Master the "sharp pik" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“rapid tattoo”

What the Downy Woodpecker sounds like

Downy Woodpeckers are small versions of the classic woodpecker body plan. They have a straight, chisel-like bill, blocky head, wide shoulders, and straight-backed posture. The black upperparts are checked with white on the wings, the head is boldly striped, and the back has a broad white stripe down the center. Males have a small red patch on the back of the head.

“sharp pik”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A fast drum roll on resonant wood or metal, used for territorial advertisement and mate attraction. Often written as “rapid tattoo”.
Don't confuse with:The Hairy Woodpecker — larger size (about 50% bigger) with proportionately longer bill

Lessons featuring the Downy Woodpecker

Ready to test your ear? Practice identifying the Downy Woodpecker's sounds in these interactive in-app lessons.

Meet the Neighbors lesson habitat
Meet the Neighbors
Tier 1 · Right Out the Door
Woodpecker Workshop lesson habitat
Woodpecker Workshop
Tier 3 · Family Reunion
Start Learning Free

Where you'll hear it

Open woodlands, particularly deciduous woods, parks, suburbs, orchards, and areas with scattered trees.

Active year-round during daylight hours, often joining mixed-species flocks in winter.

Similar species

Hairy Woodpecker

Larger size (about 50% bigger) with proportionately longer bill

Nuttall's Woodpecker

Found only in California

Ladder-backed Woodpecker

Found in southwestern deserts and scrub

Downy Woodpecker sound FAQ

What does a Downy Woodpecker sound like?
A fast drum roll on resonant wood or metal, used for territorial advertisement and mate attraction. Listen for the "sharp pik" phrase.
How do I tell a Downy Woodpecker from a Hairy Woodpecker by sound?
Hairy Woodpecker: Larger size (about 50% bigger) with proportionately longer bill; Outer tail feathers pure white without black spots; Tends to forage on larger branches and trunks.
When is the best time to hear a Downy Woodpecker?
Active year-round during daylight hours, often joining mixed-species flocks in winter.