Woodpeckers

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.