Woodpeckers have a diverse diet, consisting of both insects and plant matter. They are known to be opportunistic feeders, taking advantage of a wide range of food sources. Let’s explore some of the specific foods that woodpeckers commonly consume:
1. Insects: Woodpeckers are skilled insect hunters and feed on a variety of insects, including beetles, ants, termites, caterpillars, spiders, and larvae. They use their strong beaks to drill into trees and wood to uncover hidden insects.
2. Suet: Woodpeckers are attracted to suet, which is a high-energy food made from animal fat. Suet is often mixed with seeds, nuts, or dried fruits to provide extra nutrition. Woodpeckers can cling to suet feeders and peck away at the suet, providing them with a good source of energy.
3. Bark Butter: Bark Butter is a specially formulated spread made from rendered suet, peanuts, and other ingredients. It is designed to be spread on tree bark or specialized feeders. Woodpeckers, including the Downy Woodpecker and the Red-bellied Woodpecker, are known to be fond of Bark Butter.
4. Peanuts and tree nuts: Woodpeckers have strong beaks that can crack open nuts, so they often feed on peanuts, almonds, walnuts, and other tree nuts. These nuts provide them with essential fats and proteins.
5. Mealworms: Woodpeckers are known to eat mealworms, especially during the breeding season when they require a high protein diet to feed their young. Mealworms are rich in nutrients and can be offered in specialized feeders or scattered on the ground.
6. Seeds: Woodpeckers eat various seeds, including sunflower seeds and sunflower chips. They may also consume cracked corn, which can be scattered on the ground or offered in feeders.
7. Fruits: Some woodpecker species, such as the Northern Flicker, will eat fruits and berries when available. They may feed on berries, apples, cherries, or other soft fruits.
8. Nectar: While not a significant part of their diet, some woodpecker species, such as the Red-breasted Sapsucker, may occasionally feed on nectar from flowers or sap wells they create in trees.
It’s important to note that different woodpecker species may have slight variations in their diet preferences. Additionally, woodpeckers may adapt their feeding habits based on seasonal food availability. Providing a variety of these foods in your yard can attract and support woodpeckers throughout the year.