It seems fitting to write about the Red-bellied Woodpecker the day after Christmas. After all, this bird wears his Christmas cap all year round.
But don’t let his festive attire fool you! Tis the season for him to display quite the Ebenezer attitude – aggressively claiming his territory and fiercely chasing other males away.
A female has been showing up too, but she is a bit skittish. I think she is on her guard since there is so much testosterone in the air!
Despite their scroogishness, these guys (and gals too) really are beautiful birds. I sometimes go outside and pretend like I am seeing them for the very first time just so I can marvel all over again!
The good news is they reserve their miserly mindset for other males and don’t seem to mind my presence in the least. I’m pretty sure they have come to recognize the hand that feeds them!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
Such beautiful photos, Kathy! Could I have your permission to try painting one of your birds? 😃
I would be honored…and you have infinite permission, so you never need to ask in the future. 🙂
Thank you so much! 💖💕💜
They are beautiful, but why red-bellied when the only red is on their head?
They do have a hint of rusty red on their breast, but the main reason is because there is another woodpecker with a totally red head that has the honor of having that name. 🙂
Love your beautiful clear pics Kathy!
Thanks! I love these Woodpeckers. They are a photographers dream since they are beautiful and sit still long enough to focus!
They are very festive indeed!
I am so glad these guys are frequent visitors. Hope you had a lovely Christmas. 🙂
Super captures!!
Thanks. Unlike my small, flitty birds, these guys are easier to work with. 🙂
Great captures, love their little red caps!
I can’t help but smile when they show up. They are such beautiful birds. 🙂