Downy Woodpecker (male)

A male downy woodpecker (red spot on back of head = male) has a determined look when feeding.  The male tends to feed on small branches and stems which are more productive than larger trunks and large branches.  The male was periodically chasing a female downy, apparently keeping her away from the small branches.

One week ago I blipped a female downy at this spot.  Reviewed photos from that day, and the female was feeding on tree trunks and large branches in all of them.

Later the male downy landed on a weed stem 2 meters from where I stood.  I am certain he saw me, but he did not fly away and continued to feed. Wish some of the other birds were as friendly. Attempted but did not get good pics of a red-bellied woodpecker and of half a dozen cardinals. They are not fond of posing in close quarters.

Location: west side of driveway into Waa Kee Sha Park, Oswego, Illinois.