Red- Headed Woodpecker

red-headed woodpecker

Yesterday, while biking on the Indian Head Rail Trail, I finally spotted the red-headed woodpecker! Patrick, my brother-in-law and avid birder, first introduced me to this type of woodpecker. I also saw a photo on the trail bulletin board, so I have been trying to catch a glimpse of this uncommon bird whenever I am on the trail. I had about given up trying to find this bird, when all of a sudden, there it was perched on top of a dead tree right in front of me!

I noticed that in flight they have very distinct black and white markings. These birds are omnivorous, eating nuts, seeds, insects and even mice! They actually store live grasshoppers in a hole or cavity and will cover them with bark.  The above photo is from the following website. http://www.houstonaudubon.org

wren gobbling mealworm

Back at home in my backyard, feeding the birds live mealworms has been a full-time job. I initially bought these wiggly creatures to try and attract nesting bluebirds, but so far, no luck with that. But, the titmice, chickadees and wrens LOVE them! I have already been back to Wild Bird Lovers to stock up! When I first bought them back in April, I asked the clerk how long these guys would keep in the refrigerator and he replied," Up to 6 months, but they won't last that long!" Boy, was he right about that!

chickadee

This juvenile was so cute sitting on the deck railing this morning. I am not sure if he is a young catbird or mockingbird, but loved how puffed up and sweet he looked! Anyone know what type he is?