The snowfall earlier this month in Arkansas provided many opportunities for me to photograph various bird species, including this male Red-bellied Woodpecker.
Red-bellied Woodpecker male portrait in snow – Canon R7, handheld, f7.1, 1/200, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 312mm, natural light
Red-bellied Woodpeckers are medium-sized woodpeckers, and this male came close enough while I was bundled up on the deck to take some portraits of him. I couldn’t help but admire how the snow-white background made the red plumage on his head and the back of his neck stand out even more—it was such a striking contrast.
The black-and-white feathers on his back and wings stood out well, too.
Male Red-bellied Woodpecker close up in a snowstorm – Canon R7, handheld, f7.1, 1/200, ISO 1000, +2.3 EV, Canon EF 100-400mm II at 312mm, natural light
He had stopped by the suet feeder for a snack, something these woodpeckers really seem to appreciate when the weather turns cold and snowy. Suet provides the extra calories they need to keep up their energy in tough conditions like this. Watching him enjoy the feeder was a treat, and it made sitting out in the chill completely worth it.
While I didn’t spot a female Red-bellied Woodpecker at the suet feeder, I’m pretty sure there are some females nearby. This species doesn’t migrate, so even if a female didn’t show up during the snowstorm, there are probably some females out there somewhere in the area.
I expect that by the end of next month, these Red-bellied Woodpeckers will begin looking for trees to nest in and start working on their nesting cavities.
Last year, I saw several Red-bellied Woodpeckers using their nesting cavities, but I missed the chance to photograph their young in the nest. I hope to accomplish that this coming nesting season.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Red-bellied Woodpecker photos plus facts and information about this species.
Marvelous colors and detail. I really love the first shot. I think all the girlie RB Woodpeckers are in the background arguing about who gets to date this handsome fellow. Thanks Mia.
Snow and a beautiful bird I will never see for myself!!! Thank you.