What does a Downy Woodpecker sound like?

Downy Woodpeckers sound like throaty high-pitched notes. The pitch descends towards the end, and the typical call spans around two seconds. When excited, Downy Woodpeckers also produce a sharp note, at times, repeated a couple of times. Apart from the call sound, Downy Woodpecker makes other sounds that can be used to distinguish them from other species.

Birds aren’t the most vocally gifted species, but they make distinct sounds, ranging from quacks, warbles, hoots, trills to screeches. Downy Woodpecker makes sounds to attract mates, a signal they’re ready for mating and marking territories. This is primarily by drumming, typically on trees.

Drumming, also referred to as tatting, tattooing, rapping, is the most distinctive sound made by woodpeckers. The birds look for resonant objects to ensure that the drumming is loud enough to be heard further away. Objects such as hollow trees exterior light covers, transformer boxes, utility poles, rain gutters, metal chimneys, and exhaust vent, among others, are a favorite for the Downy Woodpeckers, as they enhance the strength and volume as they drum.

Drumming rhythm All Woodpeckers drum, but the Downy Woodpecker makes a distinctive sound. The primary rhythm is characterized by rapid, repetitive strikes at a steady pace. You can almost feel like it’s a single, uninterrupted sound. Drumming is particularly common during the late winter and early spring seasons. That’s the period Downy Woodpeckers are actively looking for mates while marking their territories. While drumming is usually heard during the morning hours, Downy Woodpeckers drums at any time of the day.

Drumming is also heard as the birds excavate. This is usually at a slower, quieter, and deliberate tapping. While not intended for communication, the sounds can also attract mates. Dominant and healthy Downy Woodpeckers make the most vibrant drumming patterns, signifying they are good mates.