One that got away

[Bill Dix]

D90; 80-400 VR @ 400mm. ISO 800. f/5.6 @ 1/2000s. -0.7 EV. HH.

Around here, Pileated Woodpeckers are extremely secretive, and I feel privileged any time I just see one. I watched this fellow from considerable distance for some time, remodeling his nest hole (on the shady side of the tree). Figured if I worked my way quietly in a wide arc through the (brambly) woods I could come up on the other side of his tree, and sneak around for a shot. But as soon as I got this one, he was out of his hole and off through the woods. He's an hour's drive from home, but now that I know where to find his hole it will be worth another trip. Who knows; maybe I'll get lucky.

[Alfred Forns]

I'm sure you will Bill !!! Just give him space to get used to you !!! I like the crop and how its presented, just need a parallel head !!

btw with these you want to go manual for the metering since getting more or less tree will have a significant impact on the exposure !!

[Oscar Zangroniz]

Great capture Bill, I like how you framed your subject.
Congrats

[Lance Peters]

Hi Bill - agree with AL - like the crop - just need that HA.
Looking forward to seeing more :)

[arash_hazeghi]

Al covered everything, cool shot, looking forward to see more.

[Peter Farrell]

Hi Bill,
Nice capture and I feel your pain.
I have been stalking the Pileateds as well. They are not uncommon here and even get them in my yard on occasion. I have found one male boring a nest in a fairly accesible area. I hope to get som images of the babies when they start popping there heads out. Good luck in your quest.
Peter

[Nicki Gwynn Jones]

Hi Bill,
I look forward to seeing the fruits of your quest for more images - and I love the texture of the bark!
Best,
Nicki