Acorn woodpeckers are truly fascinating birds. For one, they don’t quite look like any other woodpecker species. But more than that, they have a complex social structure, unique cooperative breeding system, and remarkable habit of storing and protecting thousands of acorns. Living in large communal groups, these woodpeckers exhibit cooperative behaviors rarely seen in other bird species, with multiple breeding males and females working together to raise their young. Their intricate system of creating granaries, or storage holes in trees, to hoard acorns has captivated the attention of researchers and bird enthusiasts alike.
1. Acorn Woodpeckers Can Store Thousands Of Acorns In One Tree.
First things first, let’s find out why these woodpeckers were named after acorns. Not only do they eat acorns, but they have an impressive process for storing them. They choose dead tree limbs, fence posts, utility poles or even wooden barn walls and drill small holes. Acorns are collected from oak trees (or sometimes walnuts, pecans, pinyon pine nuts or hazelnuts) and stuffed tightly into the holes.
These woodpeckers wedge the nuts in so tight, that even hungry squirrels have a hard time getting them out. This acorn collection is called a granary, and can contain thousands upon thousands of acorns. These storage spaces ensure a steady supply of food during the winter.
2. Acorn Woodpeckers Work Together To Maintain Their Stash.
Acorn woodpeckers live in groups known as clans, which consist of 2 to 16 members. Within these clans, multiple breeding pairs and non-breeding helpers work together harmoniously to maintain their granary system. It’s an effort where everyone contributes by gathering and safeguarding acorns from thieves, like squirrels or other birds. In addition to drilling holes and collecting acorns, group members will survey the current store. Each hole is periodically checked, and acorns are moved to new holes if they become too lose.
3. Acorn Woodpeckers Have Unusual Plumage For Woodpeckers.
One of the most noticeable features of acorn woodpeckers is their striking appearance. While they have the common woodpecker colors of black, white and red, they are arranged quite differently. The most noticeable thing about them is their “clown face” of black, white and red with a light eye. Rather than facial stripes like many woodpeckers, they have solid blocks of color. Their back is solid black, with a black chest and long wispy dark stripes running down their white underparts.