My interests have changed so much in this time of my life. Quilting? My grandmother was a quilter, not me!!! And now a Redheaded Woodpecker in my backyard is the highlight of my day. I stood on my patio, camera in hand, trying to stay still enough, and quiet enough to capture a photo of him for YOU!!! How do you like that? I cropped the pics so they are closer and some less clear, but I still thought it better so that you could see the coloration.
One distinquishing mark on this bird are the heart shapes on their tale. Can you see them?
According to my Texas Birds book this bird is a Red Bellied Woodpecker. His life span is close to 20 years. The females nape of neck is the only red part of the head. The couple nests in of several cavities excavated by the male, an existing cavity or a birdhouse; 4-5 white eggs are incubated for 12-14 days. The pair raise their young. This means that the male searches for a home and shows it to his mate, they set up housekeeping and he HELPS her raise their young. This bird is smarted or at least more responsible than alot of men I know. How about you? 
He's a beautiful bird. Thanks for standing so still so that we might get a look at him, too.
ReplyDeleteOh Molly! You did such a good job with the pictures! I have one in my yard too - you have inspired me to try to capture him on film as well.
ReplyDeleteI just love your blog! You are so creative and such an inspiration to me!
Hope Mommy and baby are well soon and the rest of you - - - take you vitimin C!!!!!!!!
Love you
Kathleen
Great shots Molly. Nature has definitely taken on a new meaning for me in my retired life. I can acturally stop and enjoy it....LOL
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How awesome to have such a beautiful bird in your back yard. :) Lovely!!
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