The influence of habitat characteristics on the occurrence of Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker Dendrocopos kizuki in urban open spaces was investigated. Out of 21 open spaces in Tokyo, six were occupied by woodpeckers during the breeding season and 13 during the non-breeding season. Using generalized linear models and a model selection approach, it was revealed that forested areas in open spaces influenced the presence or absence of woodpeckers. No correlations between the presence of woodpeckers, the degree of isolation of open spaces and the density of dead trees (all predicted as necessary for nesting and feeding) were found. Possible interpretations are discussed.