In our city, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Downy Woodpecker is a frequent visitor in any seasons.
This small, black and white bird is commonly spotted darting around trees (usually dead and dying trees), and shrubs, on the hunt for insects in the city parks, gardens and even in our neighbor backyards.
Both male and female a black and white striped facial pattern and wield a short, sharp bill for pecking into wood to find insects.
The different that male has the bright red patch on the back of its head.
The Woodpeckers play a crucial role in the local ecosystem by controlling insect populations and creating tree cavities used by other birds and animals for nesting.
Many people, especially Birdwatchers also enjoy spotting them due to their unique look and agile movements.
Do you know about a Downy Woodpecker?
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