While you may find them annoying if they are destructive to something, or wake you at 5 am pecking on your chimney flue, I find them to be one of the most exciting birds to photograph. And luckily I have ample opportunities here in the Midwest.

There is never a dull moment when a red-belly arrives while birding. They are very acrobatic and always on the move, adding some challenge and planning to get a decent photograph. We also have downy and the occasional hairy woodpecker that visits here as well. So adorable, you can’t help but smile when one enters your camera frame.