Woodpeckers are fairly common in the Arboretum. The most common species are the Nuttall's Woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii) and the Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus), although Downy Woodpecker (Picoides pubescens) and others may be seen as well. They use their chisel-like beaks to peck holes in tree bark, looking for insects to eat.
Nuttall's Woodpecker
A male Nuttall's woodpecker (Picoides nuttallii) seen in the UC Davis Arboretum
Another male Nuttall's woodpecker seen in the UC Davis Arboretum
Nuttalls made a nest and a little one in my front yard
Both mom and dad appear to feed him about equally. And this is the only time he shuts up.
Northern Flicker
Northern Flicker Taken at the Davis Cemetery
Northern Flicker Taken at the Davis Cemetery
Downy Woodpecker
Downy Woodpecker in the UC Davis Riparian Reserve
Downys are our smallest woodpecker species. They appear similar to the less common hairy woodpecker, but can be discerned by their smaller size and proportionately smaller bill. These two species can be differentiated from others by a patch of white on the back. They are often seen on the tips of smaller branches or on lighter materials such as reeds or tules, when along water.
Others
(photo request)
See also
2005-02-28 20:23:25 These photos should be replaced as soon as somebody can take a better photo of this species. —CarlMcCabe
2005-04-01 00:29:23 I've been trying to get good shots of woodpeckers for a few years, I think these are plenty good. —AlexMandel
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