The pileated part is the red crest, which is from the Latin pileatus, which means 'capped.'
The males have a red mustache.
In summer, I've found three of them during one walk across our 2nd and 3rd lots, in the forest. We have 16 acres, total. Mostly swamp (~10 acres)!
Upon circling the tree, I managed to get a better view. I was worried about disturbing him, and I did. (See the end of the video) As I backed off, however, he flew in a circle around the forest and came back to the tree.
Feb. 18
I went back the next day, to do another walkabout, and snapped a better photo of his hole. It would make a nice nesting cavity for the barred owl. The barred owl nest is looking a bit the worse for wear.I could see him across the highway. This is a pretty dirty lens, but you get the drift. It's too bad the shot of him in flight wasn't focused. I'm just not swift enough.
Why don't woodpeckers get concussions?
Wiki Jimfbleak |
This photo's post shows the end of his tongue! It is raspy, and can skewer the bugs!
They are large birds, their bodies can be 49 cm (19"), and their wingspan up to 76 cm (30").
Pileated woodpecker from Jennifer Jilks on Vimeo.
8 comments:
Hari OM
WOW! What female wouldn't be impressed with that architect's work??? What a busy bird it has been. That is amazing footage, Jenn!!! YAM xx
Good One, Jenn!
I had read about the concussion factor, nature is so wonderful to protect birds and animals in unique ways.
They're fun birds to watch!
They are ver odd creatures when you think about it.
Pileated are fascinating to watch. they will get very close to you. Then you have to be still.
When we lived in Ohio, our house was on the edge of a large wood, and we frequently saw pairs of pileated woodpeckers. I am still in awe of the size of these birds, and the holes they can make in trees. I also like their very distinctive 'laughing' call. Thanks for sharing this post, especially the videos!
Oh wow! That is just so awesome! I've never seen this bird in the wild. You see so many amazing sights around your house.
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