This is classic sapsucker feeding behavior.
They create horizontal rows of sap wells through the outer bark and cambial zone to induce sap flow. The sap attracts insects, which the bird later feeds on — the tree itself isn’t the primary food source.
On vigorous trees, this is usually cosmetic. On stressed or thin-barked species, repeated girdling in the same zone can contribute to decline, especially when combined with other stressors.
Important distinction here: this is intentional avian feeding behavior, not insect infestation or pathogen-related damage.
by BotanicalSolutionsNY
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