The Red Bellied Woodpecker is a type of woodpecker that is 9-inch long and has black and white bands, gray breast and face, and a red crown and nape. It also has a small reddish patch on its belly, hence its name. One of the interesting facts about Red Bellied Woodpeckers is that they drum in early spring that signals that the male Red-bellied Woodpecker is claiming territory and aims to court a mate for a season of nesting. The drumming may be done on limbs, poles, or any other material that resonates.
The diet of the Red Bellied Woodpecker mainly consists of wood-boring insects, beetles, nuts, seeds, fruits and berries. Setting up feeders that contain these foods is a great way to attract the Red Bellied Woodpecker. Usual favorites at feeders are nuts, fruit, and sunflower seeds. Both suet feeders and fruit feeders will do.
One technique in making a feeder is to put a lot of wood shavings in it to simulate a rotting tree and attract more birds to the feeder. Put a slate entrance guard in the opening to prevent squirrels and woodpeckers themselves from boring holes. Don’t forget to put air slots and drainage holes for proper ventilation and sanitation.