The best feeder for downy woodpeckers
The smallest North American woodpecker and the most frequent at feeders. A tail-prop suet feeder gives them a natural feeding posture.
Feeder styles that work
They cling and brace with the tail as on a trunk.
Light enough to use small perches.
What to fill it with
- Suet
- Shelled peanuts
- Black-oil sunflower
- Hulled sunflower
Sizing the feeder to the bird
The Downy Woodpecker measures 5.5–6.7 in and weighs 0.7–1.0 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.
Keep it clean
Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.
Frequently asked
What kind of feeder is best for downy woodpeckers?
Suet cage or log feeder. They cling and brace with the tail as on a trunk.
What should I put in a feeder for downy woodpeckers?
Suet, Shelled peanuts, Black-oil sunflower, Hulled sunflower.
Where should I place a feeder for downy woodpeckers?
The smallest North American woodpecker and the most frequent at feeders. A tail-prop suet feeder gives them a natural feeding posture.
Sources
- Downy Woodpecker — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Downy Woodpecker life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Downy Woodpecker — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
- NestWatch nest box plans and species requirements — Cornell Lab
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.