A pair of Northern Flicker woodpeckers, female (left) and male (right) drumming on a tall utility pole. The colorful male perched almost on top of the pole just below the cable wires. Their tail feathers allow them to grip onto the pole for support. At 12 to 14 inches they are larger than other woodpecker species and they have the longest tongue that can extend two inches past the tip of their beak. They mate for life. I first saw the pair feeding on the berries of the Pacific myrtle tree, but by the time I got my camera they have flown to the pole. They provide a cheerful sight on this cold grey day.

Nikon P1000

shadow highlights, sharpen PS Collage MS Paint