I often find myself captivated by the diverse array of bird species that visit my yard. On one particular occasion, I was sitting on my deck, camera at the ready, when a magnificent Pileated Woodpecker caught my eye.
This stunning bird is known for its distinctive red crest and striking black and white plumage. Its large size and powerful beak make it an impressive sight to behold, especially up close.
As I watched, the Pileated Woodpecker darted down to the bottom of a nearby pine tree, seemingly oblivious to my presence. With my camera at the ready, I was able to get a few photos before it moved on to its next destination.

Pileated Woodpecker in My Backyard
Interestingly, Pileated Woodpeckers are known for their impressive foraging skills. Using their strong beaks, they can easily excavate deep holes in search of their favorite food sources, including ants, beetles, and termites. In fact, their excavation skills are so impressive that other bird species often use their abandoned holes as shelter.
Overall, I feel incredibly fortunate to have witnessed this magnificent bird in action. Wildlife photography truly allows us to appreciate the beauty and intricacy of the natural world, and I am grateful for every opportunity to capture these fleeting moments.
Gear Used:
- Camera:Â Canon EOS R7
- Lens: Canon RF 100-500 mm F4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Technical:
- Location: Lavaca (Arkansas)
- Date and Time Taken: April 28, 2023 (09:05 A. M.)
- Exposure Mode: Manual
- Aperture: f8
- Shutter speed: 1/800
- ISO: 2000 (Auto)
- Focal Length: 500 mm