Hairy Woodpecker Nest Box

HAIRY WOODPECKER

This black and white woodpecker, with a red spot behind the head in the male, is one of the most widespread in North America. Both sexes drum on trees to claim territory or to attract mates. It is the large copy of the downy woodpecker, with a proportionally longer bill, almost as long as the depth of its head. It nests from April to August in mature forests and lays 3 to 6 eggs which are incubated by both parents for 11 to 12 days. The chicks will make their first flight approximately 29 days after hatching.

The hairy woodpecker eats mainly insects and larvae, but also nuts and seeds, and sometimes visits bird feeders in winter. They form monogamous couples and can be with the same partner for more than 4 years. It digs cavities which it uses to raise its young and spend the night.

City, countryside and forest.

Eater of harmful insects.
Scatters seeds.
Creator of future habitats.

FACILITY

Urban, peri-urban and rural areas.

On the edge of forests, small woods and thickets, bushes, groves and orchards.

Near suburban or country homes offering a combination of trees and open space. Mixed or coniferous forests.

Mature tree.

Orientation of the hole: South, South-East.
Height: 1.8 to 6 meters from the ground.

PRECAUTIONS

_ Carry out maintenance every fall to avoid pests and diseases

_ Do not drive screws or drive nails directly into trees.