Once the young have grown feathers and can maintain their own body heat, both adults bring in food. Adults regurgitate partially digested insects to feed the young. Later, whole insects may be brought to the growing chicks. Young leave the nest after 25-30 days. They may then remain with the parents for only a few days before becoming full independent.
Woodpeckers play an important part in Alaska's forest ecosystems.
Wood-boring and other insects which are inaccessible to other birds are consumed by woodpeckers. In some areas, woodpeckers are thought to be able to eat enough larvae to prevent outbreaks of insects that damage and kill trees. Since wood and saw logs are very valuable in much of Alaska, woodpeckers could play an important economic role. Aesthetically, their value is incalculable. The sound of a drumming woodpecker is a sign of the approach of spring.