Red-headed Woodpecker at Zapata Ranch

[mvjo...@gmail.com]

Today I observed an adult Red-headed Woodpecker at the Zapata Ranch near Mosca, Colorado (Alamosa County). This is the first time I have ever seen one here in the 34 years of birding the San Luis Valley. According to the local records I keep, this is the 5th record for the San Luis Valley. It sure made my day for sure.

For the record, Zapata Ranch is a private guest ranch and not open to general birders. But I think it is important that birders know that this bird is in the area, and should be watched for in this locality.

John Rawinski

Monte Vista, CO