When I was visiting my Mom awhile back, a young Red-headed Woodpecker paid a visit while we were sitting in the backyard. This little one has reached the age where he is learning to fend for himself a bit.
It was fascinating watching the adult train the youngster. Mom (or Dad) wedged a peanut into a crevice in the wood post…
…and then let Junior discover it.
It’s crazy how his feathers make him look like you’re watching an old black and white movie.
But what’s even crazier is that one day he will be bold and vibrant, like this beauty below.
It’s hard to believe that these birds start out monochrome and end up totally majestic!
Backyard Bird Nerd 
I see the woodpeckers at our feeders doing this too, when they bring the youngsters here, they can find food for themselves, clever little beasties 🙂
Isn’t it fun to watch!
They are fabulous to watch! Do yours hide around the tree trunk and peep round to see if you are still around?
The “regulars” don’t mind me being there, but the ones just passing through do indeed spy on me!
Ditto Kathy, I now walk up to a wooded area and put out food, a small flack starts gathering as I walk up to the spot 🙂
Wow. What a gorgeous transformation happens to them. I loved how you gave us the sequence.
It’s hard to find a more striking bird than the grown up version!
🤩
so wonderful! thank you for sharing!
My pleasure!
Awww, very cool!