Now, on with the blog:
Our Pileated Woodpeckers started bringing their fledgling near the feeder and I cannot tell you how many hours I spent trying to get a good photograph. It just was not to be. The lighting was terrible and the birds in constant movement.
Here the baby waits for a feeding.
And here is the baby getting fed. And of course, it's like so many other great birds. It's on the other side of the tree.
Each and every feeding that I observed was on the back side of the tree, almost as if the woodpeckers had it planned. So I do apologize that I was not able to give you a good look. I doubt that the Pileateds will have another nesting this year. But there's always next year.
19 comments:
I feel the same way about the nervous little goldfinch family living in my neighbor's tree and visiting the birdbath daily. The absolute moment they become aware that I'm outdoors with them, they stop visiting.
I never saw a light or goblins at the delivery of my last child, but I did tell my husband goodbye. My blood pressure had dropped into the nether regions after much blood loss. It felt peaceful for a moment and then the next thing you know, I was back.
I laughed when you said the Pileated was always on the other side when you tried to take photos of the feeding. I had the same problem this summer when I tried to take photos of a Pileated -- I think some birds have a sense about them to beware of humans. Can you blame them?
I still loved the shots you got. Pileateds are such beautiful birds and I'd never seen a fledgling.
Funny thing: Another blogger acquaintance of mine was hospitalized about 6 months ago in the same circumstances and her condition was similarly dire. She had no clue she even had an ulcer and she feels grateful to be alive today. We know a lot more about the causes of ulcers now than we did twenty years ago, but we seem less generally aware of them. Time was, everyone worried about getting an ulcer all the time. Now, all I seem to hear about is sudden, critical ruptures! Wonder why?
Even if it is on the other side of the tree, the light shining through that red top is worth the pic!
The parents must be camera shy.
Cute photos nonetheless.
You are right, our health is a precious gift.
I just met you you on another blog and am glad that I stopped by. First, your lovely header photo reminds me of the valley and mountains where I grew up--Roanoke, VA. My husband and I have given thought to retiring back to that area or to North Carolina. Secondly, I loved reading about your dog(s). We, too, have "parented" a best dog in the world. We lost our second dalmatian about two months ago. We were lucky enough to get a "returned" dog from our breeder. We are falling in love again.
Best,
Bonnie
Nothing to apologize for in these shots! Love being able to get a good look at the baby.
Our pileated woodpeckers behave exactly the same way. I think they must have built-in camera detectors.
Camera shy for sure. Still you did good.
Looks like a woodpecker covert operation to me! I've enjoyed your fledgling photos.
I haven't had a 'brush' with death, Carolyn, like you had---but I certainly have had my entire life altered these past couple of months. For a hiker not to be able to walk is HORRIBLE--as you can imagine.
Love your Pileateds.... Didn't you tell that Daddy (or Mama) to come around on your side of the tree --so you could get a better shot???? ha (I think birds do that on purpose!!!!! ha)
Hugs,
Betsy
Happy Belated birthday to you and isn't life ever so much better than it was this time last year? Although last year, on the 30th I guess you were already counting your blessings. Now we have to continue to send healthy vibes Roger's way. I love your little red headed baby and he's another reminder not to postpone joy.
The photos of the baby backlit by the sun are beautiful, even if the parent was less than cooperative. These pictures are great - no need for an apology!
I love their little red hats!
When something like that happens to us out of the blue, it's even more disconcerting. But, that's what things like bleeding ulcers do. They rear their heads when they are at their worst stage. So glad you had a spouse who knew what you needed and advocated for you.
Heck, I'd be ticked to even get to SEE those Pileateds, let along photograph them! Lucky you!!
Thanks for your comments.
Rudee - Interesting that you told your husband goodbye. I never once thought during the ordeal that I wasn't going to make it. Although the gastroenterologist told me months later that he was delighted to see me so healthy since he wasn't at all sure I would survive.
Nance - When I was in nursing school we were taught about the gnawing pain and symptoms that always presented with an ulcer. I had none of them.
Kitchen - Thanks for dropping by. I'm so glad you found another dog so soon.
Markonmywall - Oh, yes. Roger is much on my mind.
I would be SO EXCITED if I had a pileated family! How very wonderful for you!
Love that Pileated fledgling! How lucky to have that charmer hanging around your yard. Beautiful!
I hate it when that happens!
But look at it this way....you did get a great shot of the parent!
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