Hello Folks,
	We have observed Downy Woodpeckers drinking from our hummingbird
feeders for many years out here in Weybridge.  Of course, Ruby-throated
Hummingbirds drink from Y-B Sapsucker sapwells, so I guess fair is fair.
Barbara Brosnan

-----Original Message-----
From: Vermont Birds [mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Jean`
Arrowsmith
Sent: Sunday, May 31, 2009 2:31 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [VTBIRD] woodpeckers and syrup


I wonder if woodpeckers drinking from hummingbird feeders is a  
learned behavior.  In Arizona, Gila Woodpeckers are regular sippers  
at feeders.  I have never, either, seen that behavior here.  But is  
it so far from sapsuckers drinking sap?  It will be interesting to  
hear if others have seen this behavior here and if the phenomenon  
grows in frequency.