I was watching a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker in the backyard the other day. He flew to a tree near the feeding area, briefly surveyed the scene…

…and then darted down to sample some seed. You can see in the picture below just a hint of why he is called “yellow-bellied.”

As he was busy munching away, the shrill cry of a hawk rang out, and he quickly went from right side up…

…to upside down, hiding underneath the “feeding trough” – which is a small pine tree with the center cut out to hold seed.

He stayed in that position for quite awhile, and then gradually made his way back up to the top side.

You can see how this fellow’s blotchy back feathers help him blend in perfectly with the bark and avoid being hawk bait!