The acorn woodpecker lives in a mixture of oak and pine forest. Although acorns are its most important fare, it also feeds on oak catkins, insects, sap, berries, and flower nectar. Acorn woodpeckers drill holes in trees with thick bark, usually pine trees, to store acorns, nuts and even insects for winter survival. Holes with acorns are visible in the photo.

Although at present not considered a threatened species, the acorn woodpecker  nonetheless faces several threats because of habitat loss and degradation. Destruction of oak and pine forests for development and lumber activities, lack of habitat regeneration, and overgrazing are among the biggest threats against the species.

The photo was taken near Lake Gregory. Photographer: Mary Barrie