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What do Red-bellied woodpeckers do in the winter to survive? In general, they decrease their activity, adjust their diet to available resources, fluff their feathers for added insulation, and roost in tree cavities for warmth. Since the availability of insects is drastically reduced during winter months due to their own winter survival methods, woodpeckers shift their diet to wintering berries, nuts, and seeds to provide them with a high fat/high energy diet to keep warm. Red-bellied woodpeckers will store nuts and seeds in tree bark crevices for later consumption when food sources are scarce. It is always best for woodpeckers to consume natural food sources, however, supplementing their winter needs with high-quality nuts and suet will help ensure they have the nutrition needed for their winter energy needs. Suet is a high-energy food made from animal fat that helps woodpeckers stay warm and provides them with the energy needed for survival. Black-oil sunflower seeds and peanuts are other excellent choices for their high protein and healthy fat content. The Red-bellied woodpecker’s tongue is long, pointed, and barbed, and contains a sticky substance. It is used to forage for insects and extends nearly 2 inches beyond the tip of the bill. Look closely at the picture of the woodpecker eating from the seed cylinder and you will see that it is using its tongue to reach the seeds! To learn more about wintering wildlife click https://ncwf.org/blog/wintering-wildlife/