Woody woodpecker

[Caz]

Years ago, there used to be a woodpecker nest in one of the large ash trees in my garden but the nest was taken over by starlings for many years.

I caught a couple of brief glimpses last year, but a pair have finally managed to oust the usurpers and breed.

Not great shots as they're all taken through various windows, but I'm just so delighted to have seen parent and chick! A common woodpecker has also visited, but couldn't get a clear shot through the long grass at the time.

Earlier in the year:


Hurry up, Mum!


Still waiting...


At last: feeding time


More?

[Pol]

Re: Woody woodpecker

Aww that's lovely, your very own Woodpecker nest and family. I'd spend hours watching those I were in your position.

I especially like the 'feeding time' picci. That must've been a treat to watch.

Pol

[Barr1e]

Re: Woody woodpecker

Hi Caz -

I'm pleased you have taken 'the locals'.

Anne and I hear one often along the canal. I'm not sure though if the owner of the house where the tapping comes from has beam, when broken, a recording is played through a loudspeaker way up in the branches! A dear departed friend (ex BBC) who had many garden parties would do something similar to fool or enjoy the confused/amused faces.

Nice pix and thanks for showing them.

Regards. Barr1e

[Ian]

Re: Woody woodpecker

Fantastic to have such visitors Are these greater or lesser spotteds? Occasionally a greater visits our feeder but usually only in winter when it's snowing.

Ian

[Pops]

Re: Woody woodpecker

I'm really excited fo you Caz. I do have a visiting woodpecker but have never seen any of its young. To see one being fed is a first for me and you managed an excellent viewpoint.

[Caz]

Re: Woody woodpecker

Thank you all for your kind comments - I saw one of them early this morning but when I opened the curtains and got my camera I scared them away. I do spend a lot of time watching them, when they're about.

The common woodpecker
[ame]http://www.flickr.com/photos/carolpgh/7489075078/[/ame]
wasn't half as exciting. I took lots of shots, but this was the clearest.

Ian, not sure - will need to look into that to tell the difference!