Woodpeckers are a quirky bird known for their unusual call that sounds like human laughter, but many gardeners do not realise how useful they are to have in your garden. They are natural pest controllers that are known to feed on a variety of insects that tend to harm trees, lawns and other flowerbeds.

Having woodpeckers visit your garden is a simple way to keep your plants healthy without chemicals or buying expensive treatments. However, many people can be reluctant to put food out in winter as this time of year tends to have the chance of attracting mice and rats. Instead, the experts at Kennedy Wild Bird Food have shared that attracting woodpeckers can be quite easy, as you just need to scatter some organic nesting materials onto the ground.

They said: "Enhance your garden's appeal to woodpeckers by offering nesting materials such as wood chips, dried grass, and feathers in designated areas.

"Woodpeckers utilise these materials to line their nesting cavities, creating cosy and secure spaces for their eggs. Especially the breeding pairs would be attracted to these essential nesting components."

Many people overlook the importance of leaving material out for birds that can help keep them warm during the coldest time of year. Wood chips are ideal for woodpeckers, but they will also really appreciate any old wood you have, as insects tend to lay under the decaying bark.

Hollow wood is known to attract woodpeckers as it recreates the sound they make when foraging, so the birds will assume your garden is a safe place to linger.

Woodpeckers breaking into rotting wood is known to help return more nutrients into the soil, which is another natural way to give your garden a health boost.

The expert said: "Mimicking the resonant sound of drumming that woodpeckers create naturally, these structures attract curious woodpeckers searching for suitable nesting or foraging spots."

It can also help to place a birdhouse on a sheltered tree if you have one in your garden, as it will encourage woodpeckers to stay to raise their young nearby.

Once you have woodpeckers coming into your garden, ensure you have a birdbath somewhere as it can be difficult for birds to access clean drinking water at this time of year.

If you wish to risk feeding woodpeckers, they fill enjoy fatty foods like suet blocks or peanuts, but make sure the peanuts are made for birds otherwise they can have too much salt in them.

Woodpeckers are beautiful birds that are fascinating to watch, and are a natural way to keep your garden healthy so it will flourish after winter when the weather starts getting warmer.