Welcome to Woodpecker Diaries
Filming the everyday magic of Great Spotted Woodpeckers and occasionally The Green Woodpeckers — from garden feeders to wild woodland scenes in the South West England. Woodpecker Diaries is a nature-focused project dedicated to observing and documenting the secret lives of woodpeckers, especially in the South West. Through video, photography, and daily field notes, it offers an intimate glimpse into the behaviour, nesting, and feeding habits of these fascinating birds. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, Woodpecker Diaries brings the garden and woodland closer to you at home.
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Shop Woodpecker Diaries Notebooks, Journals & Greeting Cards
Explore our collection of thoughtfully designed notebooks, journals and accessories inspired by the charm of Great Spotted Woodpeckers. Perfect for bird lovers, nature journalers, and anyone who finds joy in the wild.
- Capture your own birdwatching stories
- Find the perfect gift for nature enthusiasts
- Support the Diaries and take a piece of the wild home
- Start your next adventure on the page
Fresh from the Feeder
Our regular male returns for a crunchy peanut breakfast – but who’s that in the background?
Explore the Diaries
Meet the Birds
Get to know the lively characters that bring our garden to life — from cheeky juvenile Great Spotted Woodpeckers exploring their first summer, to bold adult drummers announcing their presence with rhythmic beats. Each bird has its own charm, habits, and place in the unfolding story of our feathered visitors.
Photo Gallery
Browse a curated collection of candid close-ups, dynamic action shots, and quiet moments captured from the Woodpecker Diaries archives. Each image offers a glimpse into the daily lives of our garden’s Great Spotted Woodpeckers and their wild companions.
In the Wild
Join us on woodland walks and wild filming adventures across the UK as we track Great Spotted Woodpeckers in their natural habitat. From ancient forests to quiet country lanes, discover where these striking birds thrive beyond the garden.
Recent Stories & Field Notes
- Where Do Woodpeckers Go in October?Woodpeckers Go in October Where do Woodpeckers go in October? October is a funny month in the woodpecker world. One minute your garden is alive with flapping juveniles and frantic suet-feeding, and the next it feels like the birds have vanished. No more red-capped fledglings squabbling on the feeder. No… Read more: Where Do Woodpeckers Go in October?
- Woodpeckers in the South West EnglandWoodpeckers in the South West: Spotlight on the Great Spotted and Friends Nestled in the verdant landscapes of the South West of England, woodpeckers captivate gardeners and woodland-walkers alike. This region is a stronghold for these fascinating birds, offering a range of habitats from mature woodlands to well-treed gardens, perfect… Read more: Woodpeckers in the South West England
- Our Great Spotted Woodpecker CollectionBring the Garden to Your Desk The Great Spotted Woodpecker collection for a bird that captures attention and imagination. Known for its striking black, white and red markings and its rhythmic drumming, it is one of the most familiar and loved birds in British gardens and woodlands. Inspired by these… Read more: Our Great Spotted Woodpecker Collection
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Woodpecker Diaries all about?
Woodpecker Diaries is a personal nature project documenting the lives of Great Spotted Woodpeckers. I film them from my back garden and also out in the wild. It is part video log, part birdwatching journal, and part gentle reminder to slow down and notice the little things.
Where are you filming these woodpeckers?
Most of the footage is captured at a custom garden feeder setup here in the UK. I also explore nearby woodland spots to observe wild behaviour like roosting, drumming, and fledgling movement. Everything you see is filmed in real time with real birds.
Do the woodpeckers have names?
Yes. You will meet Redflash, Dotty, Pip and Speckle. Each one is named for their unique markings or personality traits. Giving them names makes it easier to follow their stories and helps build a connection with returning visitors.
How do you tell the males and females apart?
Adult males have a red patch at the back of the head while females do not. Juveniles often show a red crown that fades as they mature. Over time you also learn their habits. Redflash is bold and loud while Dotty is calm and cautious.
What camera gear are you using?
I use a mix of DSLR video cameras, trail cams, tripods and long lenses. There is also a section on the blog called Behind the Lens where I explain what I use and how I set things up. You do not need fancy gear to start.
When is the best time to see woodpeckers?
Mornings are usually the busiest especially in spring and early summer when they are feeding young. That said they can be seen all year round if you know where to look. Sometimes they even show up in frost or light snow.
How can I attract woodpeckers to my own garden?
Offer suet, peanuts or fat balls in strong feeders and keep them steady. Place feeders near trees if possible. You can also leave dead wood standing, plant native trees and avoid chemicals. Creating a quiet garden really helps too.
What do the woodpeckers eat?
In the wild they eat insects, larvae, sap and seeds. In my garden they love suet, crushed peanuts and sunflower seeds. Some also enjoy small bits of fruit like apple or raisins. Each bird has its own favourites.
Can I share your videos or photos?
Yes, you are welcome to share links or embed videos as long as you credit Woodpecker Diaries. Please do not download or repost full content without permission. This is a personal project and each clip is made with care and patience.
How do I follow along or stay updated?
You can sign up to the newsletter, follow along on YouTube or check back on the blog for new posts. I share seasonal notes, filming stories and updates on all the regulars in the garden and beyond.