132: Why Acorn Woodpeckers Store Thousands of Acorns (Wild Bird Behavior)

Acorn Woodpeckers have one of the strangest behaviors in birding—storing thousands of acorns in trees. Learn how this impacts survival, social structure, and evolution. This week, we’re diving into one of North America’s most unforgettable birds: the Acorn Woodpecker.After spotting Acorn Woodpeckers near the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, RJ couldn’t stop thinking about these bold, clown-faced birds—and for good reason. Known for their incredible food-storage behavior, some Acorn Woodpeckers have been documented hoarding hundreds of pounds of acorns, drilling thousands of perfectly spaced holes into trees, utility poles, and even the sides of people’s homes. It’s one of the most extreme examples of avian teamwork and planning in the bird world.Joining the conversation as always are Field Museum ornithologists John Bates and Shannon Hackett, alongside birding enthusiasts RJ Pole and Amanda Pole, bringing both expert insight and curious questions to the table. Together, we explore Acorn Woodpecker behavior, social structure, intelligence, and what makes this species such a standout among North American woodpeckers.Along the way, there’s also a little Midwest sports banter—including the surprising realization that the Indiana Hoosiers might actually have a real football team this year.If you love woodpeckers, bird behavior, ornithology stories, or just enjoy fun, science-driven conversations about nature, this episode is for you. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or brand new to birdwatching, this Acorn Woodpecker deep dive is equal parts educational and entertaining.Here are links to our social and YouTube pages, give us a follow:YouTube InstagramTikTokBlueSky