The Downy Woodpecker is known to be the smallest woodpecker species in North America.
They have black bodies with white backs, underbellies, throats, with incredible small white spots detailing their wings.
Adult males also have small areas of red on their heads. Downy woodpeckers are highly expansive, and can be seen mostly in woodlands, willows, and groves.
They regularly make their nests in the cavities of trees or bushes. These birds breed in the early spring as both males and females build their nest.
You can recognize these woodpeckers by their sharp ‘pik’ sounds. Throughout the state of Arkansas, these woodpeckers can be easily spotted in backyards, orchards, woodlots, and parks.
They are often found in backyard gardens visiting feeders, particularly during winter months.