The Downy Woodpecker
This work is a nature essay that explores the habits and characteristics of the Downy Woodpecker. The author describes the bird's physical appearance, its behavior, and its habitat. He also discusses the woodpecker's role in the ecosystem and its relationship with other animals. Throughout the essay, the author uses vivid descriptions and observations to convey his appreciation for the natural world.
By John Burroughs · First published 1888 · Genre: Nature Writing, Non-Fiction, Essay · 1,341 words
First lines
I
It always gives me a little pleasurable emotion when I see in the autumn woods where the downy woodpecker has just been excavating his winter quarters in a dead limb or tree-trunk. I am walking along a trail or wood-road when I see something like coarse new sawdust scattered on the ground. I know at once what carpenter has been at work in the trees overhead, and I proceed to scrutinize the trunks and branches. Presently I am sure to detect a new round hole about an inch and a half in diameter on the under side of a dead limb, or in a small tree-trunk. This is Downy's cabin, where he expects to spend the winter nights, and a part of the stormy days, too.
What this Textopian page supports
The Downy Woodpecker is listed on Textopian as an essay by John Burroughs, dated 1888 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Essay
- Author: John Burroughs
- Date: 1888 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Nature Writing, Non-Fiction, Essay, Memoir, Wildlife Observation
- Length: 1,341 words
- Structure: 1 section, 17 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for The Downy Woodpecker by John Burroughs
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- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
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Discussion starters
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Similar titles
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- A Birds Free Lunch by John Burroughs
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Genres
- Nature Writing — The work focuses on the observations and behaviors of the downy woodpecker, emphasizing the natural world and its intricacies.
- Non-Fiction — The text presents factual information about the woodpecker's habits and habitat, grounded in real-life observations.
- Essay — The writing style is reflective and personal, characteristic of an essay format that explores themes of nature and wildlife.
- Memoir — The author shares personal experiences and encounters with the woodpecker, blending personal narrative with natural observation.
Tags
Nature Writing · Ornithology · Bird Watching · Woodpeckers · Wildlife Observation · American Literature · 19th Century Literature · Nonfiction · Essay Collection · Descriptive Writing · Observational Style · Scientific Description