CF2C2459-001The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest North American woodpecker.  It is a common sight in Falmouth all year long.  It is named for the soft appearance of its feathers.  These woodpeckers are known for drumming on and drilling into dead limbs or tree trunks as well as utility poles and other man-made objects.  They are regular visitors to suet feeders in the winter.  Recently observed in a North Falmouth backyard, this downy woodpecker has a white face with black stripes, a short stubby black bill, white back with black wings with white spotting. The male downy has a unique red patch on the back of its crown.