Why Woodpeckers Hammer On Trees
By: NDTVNewsDesk
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Woodpeckers hammer on trees primarily to find food, create nest cavities.
Image: Pexels
They also do this to communicate by drumming to attract mates or defend territory.
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They chisel into wood to find grubs, carve homes for themselves and other birds, and make loud, rhythmic sounds to signal their presence.
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Pecking uncovers insects, larvae, and eggs hidden within the wood and under bark.
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Woodpeckers have excellent hearing and will tap on a tree and listen for the sounds of insects moving around.
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They excavate holes in dead or dying trees to create nests, which are later used by other cavity-nesting birds like bluebirds and owls.
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Drumming serves as a loud declaration of territory and a way to attract a mate, often on resonant surfaces.
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Some species like the Acorn Woodpecker, drill holes to create a "granary" where they store acorns and other nuts.
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