What does the Gila Woodpecker eat?

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

Diet overview

Omnivore, primarily insects, fruits, berries, and cactus pulp/nectar

How it forages

Forages on tree trunks, branches, and cacti for insects, including ants, beetles, and grasshoppers. Also consumes a significant amount of fruit (especially cactus fruits like saguaro and organ pipe), berries, seeds, and nectar. Will visit hummingbird feeders and eat pet food. Known to 'sapsuck' from trees, though less frequently than true sapsuckers.

When it feeds

Diurnal.

Explore the Gila Woodpecker