Sapsuckers of North America - minus one.

Three of the four North American Sapsuckers I have photographed.

Sapsuckers are a variety of woodpecker and are fascinating birds.  They don't quite "suck sap" as their moniker suggests.  Rather, they drill superficial holes in the barks of trees so that sap comes out.  They will have many dozens of holes in any one tree and have numerous trees that they repeatedly visit.  The sap itself holds some nutritional value, but the best part happens when insects become entangled in the sticky substance. 

The sap contains sugars, some amino acids, and a few other nutrients.  Older trees are preferred as they have higher concentrations of said chemicals.  Water, of course, is also a welcome addition.  They will also take insects that are not caught in sap, especially for their young as the growing birds are greatly in need of protein.  

I have never seen a Williamson's sapsucker, although they are found in this area (Kelowna).  I spent most of my early days photographing birds in the Lower Mainland and down the coast, where they are not found.  I may see one eventually, perhaps even this year.  Wouldn't that be nice?

Thanks for reading.

Eric Svendsen     www.ericspix.com