LIFE'S BETTER IN THE MOUNTAINS

Monday, August 26, 2013

Three On a Tree


The Pileated Woodpeckers will soon stop feeding their young and the little ones will have to fend for themselves.  Unlike most birds, the Pileated Woodpecker fledglings are almost as large as the adults before they ever leave the nests.  We can tell the difference between parent and child in their eyes.  The adults have a well-defined sclera while the pupil fills the entire eye on the juveniles.  In most instances, the adults have smoother top-knotch feathers while the juveniles appear in need of grooming.

This year, one of our mated pairs of Pileated Woodpeckers had two fledglings.  We have been delighted to see them in the area.

 
 
 
Father (on the left) and his two daughters

 
 
 
One click of the camera is enough to send one of them flying away.
Soon to be followed by the others.

It is really amazing to see the parent feeding two juveniles at once.



12 comments:

Ms. A said...

Girl, you are having all kinds of good luck with getting shots lately!

Arkansas Patti said...

Good description on how to tell the adults from the fledges. I was going to ask for at first glance, they look the same. Such handsome birds.

Carolina Linthead said...

Amazing! Squee!

Busy Bee Suz said...

What awesome captures!!! Love them!

Mary Lee said...

That must be one tired momma! Great photos!

KGMom said...

Wow--you are triply fortunate. I have only seen pileated woodpeckers a few times, and find them stunning. So, most fortunate you.

Barbara Rogers said...

I'm thrilled to see your pics of Pileated woodpeckers...they are usually so fast and gone. And so big!

The Bug said...

They're gorgeous!

Anonymous said...

Such a beautiful family. We learn so much watching adult birds tend to their offspring. Wonderful photos!

troutbirder said...

Interesting post. Wish I had them here....

Anonymous said...

How extraordinary.. what Bright birds.. Hullo I am cecilia forg e me popping in unannounced but these shots are worth stopping for! c

NCmountainwoman said...

Thanks for your comments, everyone. It isn't often that the Pileateds have two fledglings and both survive.

Kitchensgarden - Thanks for dropping by.