What does the Hairy Woodpecker eat?

The Hairy Woodpecker's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Insectivore, primarily feeding on wood-boring beetle larvae, ants, caterpillars, and other insects. Also consumes sap, berries, nuts, and seeds, especially in winter.

How it forages

Forages primarily on tree trunks and large branches, often spiraling up trees. Uses its strong bill to excavate bark and wood to extract insects. Also gleans insects from surfaces and occasionally catches insects in flight. Will visit suet feeders, especially in winter.

When it feeds

Diurnal, active during daylight hours.

Explore the Hairy Woodpecker