What an eye!

[MN Shutterbug]

This is the bird I've been after in Birdsong's backyard. Until I took these photos, I never realized how beautiful a Red-bellied Woodpecker's eyes are. It almost reminds me of a Sharp-shinned Hawk's eye. He cooperated a little better this morning, but I still haven't got the perfect shot. The first shot is posted just to emphasize the gorgeous eye.

[Birdsong]

He does have a beautiful eye! It matches his lovely red belly. Many people question why he is named the way he is. But that sure answers the question. Nice photo. Couldn't have a better sky. Now if only there were a few fewer branches. I sense some judicious pruning occuring when I am gone some day. He was here constantly again this morning. I am beginning to suspect that there are two males coming. Does anyone know if they would be too territorial for that? Seemed to be coming so fast between visits yesterday and from two directions. He couldn't possibly be eating or stashing a peanut that quickly. They never came at the same time, however. Are all boundary lines forgiven when winter is near?

[MN Shutterbug]

Until you mentioned it Sarah, I didn't even notice his red belly. I was too mesmerized by his bright red eye.

Don't worry. I'll leave my pruners at home. The branches just add to the challenge. I did leave a handful of peanuts behind, as a thank you.

[Yellowhead]

What wonderful shot! The eye is great but the belly is the really red. I've been lucky enough to photograph several over the years, but never one with a belly that red