woodpecker gymnastics

Red Cedar Flood plane, East Gate Park, Meridian Township, Michigan

 

I thought I would share three additional photos of the hairy woodpecker posted yesterday as they demonstrate some interesting aspects of the bird's behavior.

 

In this shot, you can see that the bird is able to hammer on the brach while hanging upside down. The long curved claws and stiff tail feathers allow the bird to brace itself while hammering.

Done