I remember how excited I was the first time that I saw a pileated woodpecker.  It was shortly after I moved here.  I glanced into the backyard and saw this huge bird on one of the old poplars.  Bark chips were flying in every direction as it searched for insects.  One of my nephews was with me for the day.  He was my witness to the large visitor.  That was 12 years ago.  I grew up in Alberta, about 125kms away, yet had not seen one before this day.   I ran for the bird book to identify it.

Since that day, I've seen pileated woodpeckers on numerous occasions in my yard as well as on the local hiking trails.  Even though they are a common occurrence now, I stop whatever I'm doing to observe this beauty in action.

Its 'laughing' call, body size, brilliant red cap and long strong beak remind me of a cartoon character.  I've seen them gripping the wire cage of the suet feeder, hanging upside down for up to fifteen minutes while pecking at the suet.  I've seen them searching under the bark of an old poplar snag and I've seen two at the same time, resting on fence posts in the backyard.  I don't think I will ever tire of watching these amazing creatures.

This evening I heard one calling in the backyard.  The setting sun was shining directly on the suet feeder, illuminating a bright red head.   I took a 15 minute break to watch the backyard reality show.