When I was first trying to learn bird identification, distinguishing Hairy and Downy Woodpeckers was a challenge. “Look for the unspotted white tail feathers in Hairy Woodpecker.” To this day, I am not sure about this detail but am of another, more useful one. Downies measure about 6 inches in length. Hairies about 9 inches.
We had a good look on a dark and rainy morning at a male Hairy by the car park feeders.
Other birds:
Park views:
Some botany:
Today’s group:
MAILBOX
Hello Miles—we are visiting friends just north of Cobourg, near to St. Anne’s Spa. They have a large number of bird feeders and one of the joys of a visit is watching the birds as they squabble over peanuts and feed.
This morning they had a large flock of Evening Grosbeaks visit, more females than males and I had a lovely time watching them. Attached are a few sadly blurry photos.
NATURE POETRY
Little January
Tapped at my door today.
And said, “Put on your winter wraps,
And come outdoors to play.” – Winifred C. Marshall (1761–1839)
Miles Hearn
Another fabulous set of pics. One of my favourite birds, the Woodpecker. Great shots of one. Thanks.
& beak length: the downy’s is dainty, the hairy’s approaching the width of its head – helps me when it’s hard to scale overall size, as in some of your always fabulous scaleless close-ups, which I always ID before scrolling to caption 😉
Thanks for the daily delights.
Such a lovely image, Miles. Thanks for the pics and poems, and for your inspired dedication!