West · Pacific Flyway
Are There Downy Woodpeckers in California?
Dryobates pubescens — Picidae
Is the Downy Woodpecker Found in California?
Downy Woodpeckers do occur in California, but they are considered uncommon. Encountering one requires patience and the right habitat.
Downy Woodpeckers are small, adaptable woodpeckers that forage on trunks, branches, and sturdy stems. Suet, peanuts, native trees, standing dead wood where safe, and pesticide-free habitat support them.
In California, this species is classified as uncommon. It is a year-round resident, present in all 12 months.
Monthly Activity — Downy Woodpecker in California
Relative frequency of observations by month. Higher bars indicate peak periods for this species.
Identification
Best Time to See Downy Woodpecker in California
Other birds in California
Birds you might also encounter in California.
Downy Woodpecker in other states
Downy Woodpecker in California: Quick Facts
The Downy Woodpecker (Dryobates pubescens) is an uncommon bird in California. It is classified as a year-round resident in the state, falling within the West region and the Pacific Flyway migration corridor.
Preferred habitats include deciduous woodland, park, garden. For birders in Los Angeles and throughout California, knowing the seasonal patterns of Downy Woodpecker can help plan birding trips and backyard feeding strategies.
year-round across most of the United States and Canada. Use the monthly activity chart above to plan your birding outings, and explore other bird species found in California using the related birds section.