Melanerpes lewis or Lewis Woodpecker

We have a few of these character's around my place (Chama, New Mexico) in the summer. This is the first time I have ever seen one in the winter. ??? Maybe he didn't have enough money for the trip South this winter ??? Another first for me is catching a woodpecker on the ground.

When I have wildlife that knows I am around and I haven't crossed their line in the sand as far as distance is concerned I give them a name and talk to them very softly while I am shooting at them. This Character is "Louie"

#1


#2
Checking to see how much the snow has melted


#3
Hiding some chow for later


#4
Thinking about what to do for the rest of the day


#5
A first for me he went down to the ground and was looking around for something to eat. He wouldn't turn so I could see his head so out comes the crow call and he was very curious


#6


The must try in flight shots

#7


#8

I've never seen one of those birds before. How large is he?

I have received some E-mails asking about this woodpecker. Here is some information about him.


A dark woodpecker of open woodlands, the Lewis's Woodpecker is found westward of the Great Plains. Its slow, deliberate flight reminds one of a crow or jay more than a woodpecker.
Description
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* Medium-sized woodpecker.
* Head, back, wings, and tail greenish black.
* Gray collar and chest.
* Dark red face.
* Belly pinkish or salmon red.
* Wings and tail all dark, without white spots or patches.

* Size: 26-28 cm (10-11 in)
* Wingspan: 49-52 cm (19-20 in)
* Weight: 88-138 g (3.11-4.87 ounces)

Sex Differences

Sexes look alike.

Conservation Status

Populations declining. On Audubon WatchList.

Thanks for the great close-up look.

Roger,
great series of shots. Curious as to what you shot him with.

Very nice captures.

Jim

Roger,

Great shots, and glad you got a shot at a "first" for you. (the ground shots) Great work.

Derrick

How do you like your bushhawk? I have thought about getting one, but thought the 600 f/4 IS would be a little on the heavy side.