Pileated Woodpecker drumming

Pileated Woodpecker, male

We just had a Pileated Woodpecker drumming on our house. Fortunately, it was on the metal roof so no damage done. Drumming is a woodpecker's way of communicating. Woodpeckers do not sing. Each woodpecker species has their own drumming version. In the case of the Pileated, it is a loud continuous drumming sound, trailing off at the end. Drumming is used in pair communication and territorial encounters. It is so thrilling to see a Pileated up close, we did not mind the drumming!