NatureSiz

I saw a woodpecker hole in a distant dead tree

Last week, while on a peaceful camping trip, I spotted something remarkable a perfectly round hole high up in a distant dead tree. My instincts told me it was a woodpecker’s nest, and curiosity got the better of me. Grabbing my camera, I zoomed in and confirmed my suspicion: it was a fledgling pileated woodpecker nest, one of North America’s most striking forest birds.

The Discovery

Pileated woodpeckers are impressive birds large, bold, and unmistakable with their bright red crests and powerful beaks. Seeing their nest was exciting, but I wanted more. I hoped to catch a glimpse of the parents feeding their young. So, I made a plan to return the next morning.

The Patient Wait

At dawn, I trekked back through high grass, doing my best to avoid ticks and chiggers (though, as it turned out, not entirely successfully). I set up a respectful distance away and waited. And waited. For nearly an hour, there was no activity just the quiet sounds of the forest waking up.

Then, finally, movement. A parent woodpecker arrived, clinging to the tree trunk before darting into the nest hole. Moments later, three tiny, fuzzy heads popped out, begging loudly for food. The adults made repeated trips, bringing insects to their ravenous chicks. The scene was pure wildlife magic.

Worth the Bites

Yes, I ended up with a few chigger bites, but the experience was more than worth it. Capturing these intimate moments the dedicated parents, the hungry chicks, the wild beauty of their natural habitat was unforgettable. It’s encounters like these that remind me why I love spending time in nature with my camera.

If you ever come across a woodpecker nest, remember to observe from a distance to avoid disturbing them. These birds are a vital part of the ecosystem, and witnessing their behavior is a privilege.

Have you had any exciting wildlife encounters on your outdoor adventures? Share your stories in the comments!