All the leaves are down in the forest surrounding our home. While it’s sad and a bit gloomy outside at times, winter birding is made easier given the better sight lines. While there are much fewer birds in the forest, it is much easier to see and follow desired species. This afternoon I took a hike in the Lester Amity Forest and found this Pileated Woodpecker. After following him for almost a half mile, I continued my hike. Eventually the sun came out and I took the other photo as the sun’s last light kissed the Lester River Ravine.

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This pileated woodpecker has been laughing at me all Summer and early Fall. If you have ever heard the cry of this particular kind of bird, you will understand me! However, now that the leaves have fallen in the northwoods, I was finally able to see my nemesis and take a photo!

• View this project’s Flickr photo stream. (click upon images to view at full size)