Nature Done Wright

I finally got a few decent looks at my first-of-the-year Pileated Woodpecker.

When wood chipper extraordinaire Bruce Davis texted me about it, it was up by Barking Dog Corner.

We then saw it at the edge of the Dead Zone.

It then headed up Ivers and did its best to avoid my camera. It was definitely over-caffeinated.

If you'd like to know how to pronounce its name, read this.

You'll find out why you needn't correct someone if they pronounce it differently than you do. :- ) The photo gallery with the column features photos by Barbara Dilger. The credit line disappeared somewhere along the line. (

Thanks, Barbara!)