For some reason (that I have yet to figure out) I associate the beginning of autumn with woodpeckers. So, since the season is almost upon us, I thought I'd share some photos of woodpeckers I took in our yard over the last year or two.
First, the Colaptes auratus, better known as
Northern Flicker, lovers of ants and suet:
Northern Flicker, lovers of ants and suet:
 |
| Such a big stretch - I hope it's worth it! |
 |
| Female Northern Flicker at suet feeder, the easier way |
 |
| On watch at twilight |
 |
| Who's that hiding behind the branches? See the red shaft on the tail? That's why he's known as the "red-shafted" Northern Flicker. |
 |
| Male (note the red moustache) Northern Flicker on suet feeder |
 |
| A Northern Flicker and Steller's Jay vie for the suet. The flicker won. (His beak is longer and much sharper!) |
From the Piocides genus
 |
| A pair of Piocides villosus aka Hairy Woodpeckers. Note the the male's red cap. |
 |
| Mama feeds suet to baby. So sweet to watch. |
 |
| In contrast to the Hairys above, this Downy woodpecker (Piocides pubescens) has a short stubby bill perfect for poking into tiny crevices. |
 |
| Sharing is always good. |
The Dryocopus pileatus - in a class all its own
(on Gabriola, at any rate)
(on Gabriola, at any rate)
 |
| The Pileated woodpecker is the sixth largest woodpecker in the world. When they start hammering on trees looking for carpenter ants, the chips fly! Sometimes a little suet is nice too. |
 |
| Hanging onto the homemade suet ball |
 |
| The striking silhouette of a pair of Pileated Woodpeckers from a distance. |
The lovely Sphyrapicus ruber!
 |
| This beautiful Red-breasted sapsucker is unmistakable whether you can see it or just hear it. If the woodpecker is in sight, the all-red head is unmistakeable. But even if you can't see it (but can hear it) its unique irregular drumming pattern is a giveaway. |
Thanks for tuning in. ... That all (for now), folks!
