Birdfeeders

Woodpeckers generally feed on insects that can be found in tree bark. Therefore, they are most comfortable approaching feeders that are fairly high off the ground. They will happily come to tube bird feeders filled with sunflower seeds and also to suet bird feeders. We love having them visit our yard. However, their springtime behavior can sometimes be quite annoying. If you hear loud, rapid volleys of pecking on your house, this is woodpecker “drumming”. They do it on the sides of homes, on gutters, drainpipes, TV antennas, etc. They are not digging for insects as many people fear, but trying to attract a mate! This drumming is like a song in other birds. They use it to announce their territory, attract a mate or simply keep in touch with a mate. The bird picks a resonant spot and keeps drumming there until the beginning of the breeding season. No damage is done to the house, but the early morning noise may wake you up. Once the breeding season is in full swing, they will go back to just visiting your tube bird feeders.