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Native Plants That Attract Woodpeckers

Woodpeckers are fascinating birds known for their unique behavior of drumming on trees and their ability to excavate holes in search of insects. If you want to attract these beautiful birds to your garden, planting native plants that provide them with food and shelter is a great idea. Here are some native plants that are known to attract woodpeckers:

1. Eastern Red Cedar (Juniperus virginiana)

The Eastern Red Cedar is a small to medium-sized evergreen tree that produces bluish-green berries that are a favorite food source for woodpeckers. These berries attract insects, which in turn attract woodpeckers looking for a tasty meal. Additionally, the dense foliage of this tree provides excellent cover and nesting sites for woodpeckers.

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2. Serviceberry (Amelanchier spp.)

Serviceberry, also known as Juneberry, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that produces small, sweet berries loved by woodpeckers. The berries ripen in early summer, attracting not only woodpeckers but also a variety of other birds. The dense branches of the Serviceberry provide a safe haven for woodpeckers to build their nests.

3. Black Cherry (Prunus serotina)

The Black Cherry tree is a medium-sized deciduous tree that produces dark purple cherries that are a favorite food source for woodpeckers. These cherries attract insects, making them a valuable food resource for woodpeckers. The tree’s rough bark also provides excellent foraging opportunities for woodpeckers searching for insects hiding beneath the bark.

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4. American Holly (Ilex opaca)

American Holly is an evergreen tree that produces bright red berries during the winter months. These berries are a valuable food source for woodpeckers when other food options are scarce. The dense foliage of the American Holly provides shelter and protection for woodpeckers during harsh weather conditions.

5. Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis)

The Sycamore tree is a large deciduous tree that produces small, round seed balls that persist throughout the winter. These seed balls attract insects, which in turn attract woodpeckers. The tree’s hollow branches and cavities provide ideal nesting sites for woodpeckers.

By incorporating these native plants into your garden, you can create a welcoming habitat for woodpeckers. Remember to provide a water source, such as a birdbath, and avoid using pesticides to ensure a healthy environment for these fascinating birds.

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Keywords: woodpeckers, attract, berries, insects, produces, native, plants, provide, source