Who knew woodpeckers were preppers? But, instead of preplanned gardens and underground bunkers, they have an elite storage system that rivals even the best preppers out there.

The acorn woodpecker is a medium-sized bird that makes its home in the western part of the United States, as well as parts of Central America. They are proving themselves to be quite the sneaky bird, with a food-storage system that is nothing short of amazing.

Photo by jeanro/Depositphotos

These woodpeckers create what is known as ‘granaries’, also called ‘storage trees’ out of dead branches, trees, houses and even utility poles. Each year, the birds will hide their winter food in holes that are formed to the exact size of the acorn. One particular storage tree can hold upwards of 50,000 acorns.

But one bird can’t do this on his or her own. This particular breed of woodpecker lives in a group of 12 or so birds. They share nests and help one another raise baby chicks, as well. But their biggest team effort is their work to fill their granary. The acorns they hide will help feed future generations throughout the year.

You might wonder how other animals are kept from their impressive food storage. These crafty woodpeckers wedge the acorns in so snugly that anyone other than a woodpecker, would be unable to free one from the hole.

For the woodpeckers, the trick to removing them is that over time the acorns dry out – leaving them slightly smaller and easier to remove. Like a well-oiled machine, one member of the group will check the acorns over time, making sure they are safe. If an acorn is too small, the bird will move it to another spot that is safer.

Even scientists have found themselves in awe of these quite social birds, studying their behavior and their storage systems. While the woodpeckers store the acorns they are named after, they also have other primary food sources, such as sap and fruits, with acorns being their backup food source during winter.

Scientist Walt Koenig, from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, has studied these birds since 1972. He said that the culture the birds have built, as well as the determined way they pass the acorns down through generations is a reminder of how wonderfully complicated nature can be, as well as how resourceful the species is.

They’re one of the most interesting birds in North America,” Koenig said. “In fact, I can’t think of any others that even come close.”

So, if you ever find yourself standing in front of a tree, filled with thousands of acorns, make sure you take a close look and admire it – but, remember, unless you’re an acorn woodpecker, you likely won’t be getting any free snacks.

Sources: My Modern Met | Sunny Skyz