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August 04, 2014

FAQ - Why are so many Woodpeckers Black and White?

Red-bellied Woodpecker DSC_0865Q. Why are so many woodpeckers black and white? 

A. The black and white pattern found on the backs of many woodpeckers helps to conceal them from predators. This is known as disruptive coloration. The sharp contrast in colors helps to break-up and conceal the shape and outline of a woodpecker against the surfaces they frequent.

Provided by WBU, Inc.

 

Yellow-bellied Sapsucker DSC_4057
Yellow-bellied Sapsucker

 

Hairy Woodpecker P1350748
Hairy Woodpecker

 

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Posted at 10:09 AM in Attention, FAQs, Feeder Birds |

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The Zen Birdfeeder

How about oreos, Ellen?

Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | August 04, 2014 at 06:34 PM

Ellen

Look at all those beautiful woodpeckers! I must have a thing for black and white: one of my favorite warblers is Black and White Warbler. I like B&W cows too!

Posted by: Ellen | August 04, 2014 at 01:05 PM

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ATTENTION

  • Our eyes and ears should be open and alert to the natural wonders that surround us every day. Take time to look out our windows to see the birds that visit us and open our windows to hear them. Walk around whatever space we have to enjoy the birds in nature. Every day, work on improving our powers of observation.

ACCEPTANCE

  • Nature happens. We cannot MAKE natural things happen (or NOT happen). We can create habitats to encourage natural things to happen around us, but there are no guarantees.

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  • Birdfeeding comes with responsibilities to the birds and the environment we share with them. If you are unwilling to accept these responsibilities, you shouldn’t feed the birds. We also have a responsibility to share these natural wonders with the next generation.

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