They grow up so fast.
It seems like only yesterday (April 30th) that I watched a black-backed woodpecker widening the nest cavity used by American three-toed woodpeckers last year on the Harvester Road west of Baxter. Two weeks ago, I watched black-backed woodpecker parents carrying food to the little dickens, and they were still doing it a week ago. Yesterday, the male youngster was grown enough to stick his head out of the cavity, rather than waiting for mom to enter with food. His little yellow button cap was only half the size of his father’s, but he was twice as loud and persistent. He should fledge any minute, along with any kin in there with him. With luck, they’ll be there on Wednesday when Seth Benz and I chase northern woodpeckers with a few guests in tow.
The American three-toed woodpecker near Nesowadnehunk Lake Wilderness Campground is staying very close to the same spot, a week after I last looked. He was in virtually the same spot, but I haven’t bothered to find the nest – its wicked damp back there. I assume the nestlings will also fledge soon.
Gray Jays are being trailed by youngsters. Boreal chickadees are vocal a little earlier than usual up in the north woods. Methinks summer has arrived.
Bob Duchesne
Woodpecker whisperer
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