During my wildlife photography expedition at the Miner’s Cove area of the Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma, I was fortunate enough to come across a striking Red-headed Woodpecker perched on top of a dead tree. The bird was situated close to the auto tour road, making it easily accessible for me to get some incredible shots.
I set up my camera and lens on a bean bag draped over my truck’s open window. This allowed me to stabilize my equipment and ensure I got a clear and crisp image of this stunning bird.
Red-headed Woodpeckers are a particularly fascinating species. They are easily recognized by their bold red head and neck, which contrasts sharply with their black and white feathers. They have a unique behavior of storing acorns and nuts in tree crevices, fence posts, and even on the ground, which they feed on during the winter months.
These woodpeckers are considered a conservation priority species by the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service due to their declining population. Habitat loss, pesticide use, and competition with other species are some of the leading causes of their decline. It is important for us to continue to appreciate and protect these beautiful creatures so that future generations can also witness their magnificence in the wild.
Gear Used:
- Camera: Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Sequoyah National Wildlife Refuge (Oklahoma)
- Date and Time Taken: February 17, 2023 (09:46 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f7.1
- Shutter speed: 1/2500
- ISO: 800 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm