Welcome to Woodpecker Diaries
Filming the everyday magic of Great Spotted Woodpeckers — from garden feeders to wild woodland scenes in South West England.
Shop Woodpecker Diaries, Notebooks and Accessories
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 characters that visit our garden and feature in our stories — from cheeky juveniles to bold drummers.
Photo Gallery
Browse candid close-ups, action shots and snapshots from the Woodpecker Diaries archives.
In the Wild
Join us on woodland walks and wild filming missions across the UK as we track these beautiful birds in their natural habitat.
Recent Stories & Field Notes
Never Miss a Peck
Sign up for email updates when new videos drop, stories go live, or something exciting happens in the bird world. Subscribe
Thankyou from Woodpecker Diaries
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.