Wonders of Woodpeckers

Downy Woodpecker showing off it's camouflage

     Little Woodpeckers can be hard to spot, but the Winter is as good of time as any to get a chance to see them! Winter birding can be very rewarding for both experienced and beginning birders. With all of the leaves gone from the trees, the little birds are much easier to spot. Downy Woodpeckers (pictured) are residents of E.P. "Tom" Sawyer State Park all year and are the smallest of the species. Ever hear them drumming in the trees? They are searching for insects in the crevices of the bark of trees. They may also be drumming as part of their mating ritual.  They prefer dead or dying trees, since they are softer to get into and usually full of insect infestations, also feeding on the tree.  Have you seen or heard any woodpeckers lately?
     Other Woodpeckers that I have seen around the park since working here are Hairy Woodpeckers, Northern Flickers, and Yellow Bellied Sapsuckers. These are all common to the area and can bee seen all year. Other Woodpeckers you may spot around the park are Pileated Woodpeckers and Redheaded Woodpeckers. The best way to initially locate a woodpecker is to just be still and listen for it drumming and pecking on the trees around you, then let your ears guide your eyes.
     Although some folks consider woodpeckers to be pests, as they can damage buildings sometimes looking for food, they are actually a vital part of the ecosystem.  They will reduce the amount of insects that may be attacking trees, such as the Emerald Ash Borer Beetle. They also make use of the dead trees by using them not only for feeding spots, but also as nesting locations.  Many people will take down a dying tree as soon as they can, but my philosophy is that if the tree poses no threat to humans (near trails or buildings), why take it down? Many species use dying or dead trees for food and nesting sites. You may spot Hawks perched on top of dead trees scanning the fields for their next meal, taking advantage of the leafless tree canopy.  Consider the wildlife benefits before taking down any tree, dead or alive.