Here’s an unusual view of a female red-bellied woodpecker.

Normally we see her from the side and notice her black-and-white back and overall paleness.  But from the top, and in bluish light, the gap in her red helmet almost makes her look bald.

Here’s her male counterpart.  No doubt about his red head!

Watch for their mating ritual this month as they engage in “mutual tapping” on the tree they’ve chosen for their nest.

Thanks to Dan Dugan for this unusual look at a common bird.

(photos by Dan Dugan)