Yellow-bellied or Red-naped Sapsucker, Louisville, Boulder County

[Paula Hansley]

At 1:05 PM today I was sweeping more snow off my patio when all of a sudden I heard  familiar call coming from my maple tree where one suet feeder is hanging.  Unfortunately, the sapsucker, which vocalized, flew off and over my house before I could get a look at it.

I have studied the Williamson's and Red-naped Sapsuckers in the past, so I can rule out Williamson's (yes, I know it is almost unheard of here in winter, but I had one in late November a few years ago).

I think the calls were more similar to that of the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker.  Hopefully, I will be able to see it when I look around the neighborhood.  My suet feeders are the only ones within blocks; however, there are some seed feeders.  Anyone is welcome to come over, but please call first.

Paula Hansley

720-890-2628