Woodpeckers

Pileated Woodpecker

NPS Photo / Kyle Burton

Ever heard a loud drumming while walking through the woods? That's likely a woodpecker hammering on a tree trunk in search of insects! Most woodpeckers in the northeastern United States are year-round residents, sticking around through all seasons.

Importance of Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers are insectivores, meaning they rely on insects for their diet. A decline in insect populations can lead to fewer woodpeckers, so if you notice a drop in their numbers, it might indicate a recent decline in local insect populations. Additionally, woodpeckers can be indicators of certain invasive species. For example, increased woodpecker foraging can signal an infestation of emerald ash borer, an invasive beetle threatening forests across North America.

Threats to Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers currently face three main threats: increased fire weather, spring heat waves, and habitat loss. While some woodpecker species benefit from fire events, constant fires can prevent them from establishing breeding grounds. More frequent and intense heat waves in spring can jeopardize young birds in nests, as their cavity nesting strategy may lead to overheating. Furthermore, urbanization results in the loss of suitable trees, further decreasing woodpecker populations.

At Marsh-Billings-Rockefeller

In the Mount Tom forest, you’re likely to encounter several fascinating woodpecker species, including: northern flickers, pileated woodpeckers, downy woodpeckers, hairy woodpeckers, and yellow-bellied sapsuckers. If you hear drumming on the trail, be sure to look up! You might just spot one of these incredible birds hard at work!