Red Bellied Woodpecker, in the rain

[Tak]

We were looking at a large flock (6-20 varying) of robins eating crabapples from our tree on Sunday when we got a surprise. A red-bellied woodpecker arrived briefly on the tree. The tree has a few large dead branches (which we didn't cut off because a downy nests in them). It stayed only a short time, but we got a good look. It had a red cap and neck, but was brown on the front and underside of its face. Unfortunately with the teeming rain we couldn't get a photo.
I think it may have been migrating through, as we don't normally see this kind.

Anyway, just a reminder to keep an eye out even in all this rain!
cheers,
Tak

[Halton Hills]

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The Red Belly likely wasn't there to peck on the dead branches.....he's eating the Crabapples.....  

We have a resident Red Belly that's been in our yard everyday for months.

Throughout the day he visits the suet feeder.....as well as our large crabapple tree for some fruit.

If you have plenty of dried apples still on your tree he may stick around.

Once you recognize his very distinctive voice you may notice him more often.



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[Tak]

We'll certainly keep an eye out for him. But our resident male robin is a pretty aggressive defender of the fruit on "his" tree, as he needs it to last the winter, so it will have to be a brave woodpecker. : )

thanks for the info on the red-bellied's eating fruit!

[Halton Hills]

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yep.....they definitely eat the crabapples.....and I've watched them actually carry them away.

As I stated.......you'll better your chance of spotting them if you learn their call.

Alot of times I wouldn't even know he was there unless he revealed himself with his distinctive voice.

Listen to sounds at the following link......especially the Cha call.....which is used most often.

http://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/red- ... ker/sounds




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