Claysmom, perhaps your son would be interested in making his property a Certified Wildlife Habitat? This is easier than most people might think. You just need to provide food, shelter and water for various types of animals. You can Google it and read all about the requirements online, and even print out an application for the official certification. Nicki's city yard is certified, so even those without rural property can qualify. I encourage everyone who is interested to check it out. (If I can managed to stay on the computer long enough, I'll see if I can find the link, but I'm having some unanticipated difficulties from my foot surgery, and won't be here very long.) Glad you guys enjoyed seeing this old post pop up again. I do love these birds, and am happy it was of interest to you. Marcia

Thank you deanie. I had a cowbird here this summer: This fella this morning was cold or something. He never moved. And since he was new, I didn't want to rattle him, so I couldn't use my tripod that was in my kitchen sink. I had to stand away in my kitchen and shoot thru a window. Well as you see, this fella was darn near black. I could see the "spilled oil" color on its' feathers, however. Dax

Yup, Downy Woodpecker. The short , stubby bill and black spots on the outer white tail feathers are clinchers for the ID. BN

Awwwww, what a cutie pie.