Downy Woodpecker

Her feathers were a little more ruffled this time she landed. Makes her look cuter than ever. The male did appear as well but no luck today as far as one of them flying down to my hand. When the Hairy and the Flickr were on the tree near me, it did flash through my mind that they are larger than I think I'd fancy on my hand!

The Downy Woodpecker is the smallest and most common American woodpecker, found throughout most of North America from Alaska to Florida. It can be found in forests to urban backyards, and is a familiar sight at bird feeders. It seems to have a personality all of its own.

An unusual sight to see a Downy Woodpecker feeding from someone's hand. This is a male because it has the red patch on the head. Not MY hand, LOL!

This small Downy Woodpecker is a male, with the splash of bright red on its head.

This little Downy Woodpecker was enjoying the late afternoon "sweet light" yesterday. He was there for a second or two and then was gone. Just managed a quick shot before he flew. This is the bird that I am hoping will fly down to my hand one day. That would be such a thrill. (Note to self: I used a horizontal version of this image for my 2008 calendar).

Not the most flattering angle for a Downy Woodpecker. The beak tends to disappear into the nasal tufts.

This little male Downy Woodpecker perched on a tree that had beautiful red catkins (buds?) that matched his bright red head patch. Too bad the tree was a distant one!

Love the patch of bright red and the beautiful black and white markings on this little male.

One of my favourite little birds.