Woodpecker Blends

Introduction
Welcome to our complete guide on using woodpecker blends in bird feeders! In this guide, we’ll explore the fascinating world of woodpeckers, the various types of woodpecker blends you can use, and how these blends can help you attract different kinds of woodpeckers to your backyard.

The Intriguing World of Woodpeckers
Woodpeckers are a diverse group of birds, known for their unique behavior of pecking at trees in search of insects and larvae. They are a favorite among bird-watchers due to their striking colors and fascinating behaviors. Over 20 species can be found in North America alone, each with unique dietary preferences and feeding behaviors, but all share the common need for a high-energy diet to fuel their active lifestyles.

Woodpecker Blends: An Ideal Food Choice
Woodpecker blends are specialized bird food mixtures designed to attract a variety of woodpecker species. They typically contain a variety of seeds, nuts, and fruits that are favored by woodpeckers. Common ingredients include black oil sunflower seeds, peanuts, cracked corn, raisins, and even bits of dried fruit.

One of the main advantages of woodpecker blends is their high-fat content, primarily provided by the inclusion of nuts. This high-energy food is essential for woodpeckers, particularly in colder months when insects and larvae – their primary food source – are less abundant.

Using Woodpecker Blends in Bird Feeders
When feeding woodpecker blends, it’s important to use the right type of feeder. Woodpeckers are cling feeders, which means they prefer to cling onto a surface while they feed. Thus, feeders with a large surface area, such as suet cages or tray feeders, are often a good choice. You could also opt for a tube feeder with large perches to accommodate woodpeckers.

The feeder should be placed at least 5 feet off the ground to discourage predators and unwanted guests. Woodpeckers also tend to prefer feeders that are near trees or structures that they can cling to when not feeding.

Attracting Different Kinds of Woodpeckers
Using a woodpecker blend can help you attract a variety of woodpecker species. The Downy and Hairy Woodpeckers are common throughout most of North America and will readily come to feeders for a good woodpecker blend. The larger Red-bellied and Red-headed Woodpeckers also enjoy these blends, as do the Flickers.

Some species, like the Pileated Woodpecker – one of the largest species in North America – can be more challenging to attract, often preferring natural food sources. However, a good woodpecker blend can still draw them in, especially in colder months when food is scarce.

Woodpecker Feeding Throughout the Year
While winter feeding is crucial due to a scarcity of natural food sources, maintaining your woodpecker feeder throughout the year is also beneficial. In the spring and summer, these blends can provide an important supplemental food source for adult woodpeckers raising their young. In the fall, the high-energy content of the blend is valuable for woodpeckers building up their reserves for the winter.

Sustainability and Ethics in Woodpecker Feeding
As with any bird feeding practice, it’s important to ensure that your methods are sustainable and ethical. Choose woodpecker blends from reputable sources that practice sustainable sourcing. Regularly clean your bird feeders to prevent disease transmission. Also, be patient and considerate of the birds’ natural behavior – woodpeckers can be shy, and it may take time for them to become comfortable with using a feeder.

Conclusion
Feeding woodpeckers in your backyard can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Offering a well-selected woodpecker blend in a suitable feeder can attract a variety of woodpecker species to your garden, providing them with a beneficial food source and offering you a chance to witness their striking beauty and fascinating behaviors up close. Happy bird feeding!