Soon after we’d begun our hike today, a Pileated Woodpecker called loudly from behind dog and me. We stopped, turned, slowly retraced our steps along the icy trail. It called again, very near us. It had to be in one of three big bare hardwoods, but couldn’t see the bird. We walked nearer. Still no bird.

Then I heard it again, coming from behind me again—but this time quite a bit farther away. The bird had somehow flown over our heads and ended up in the young oak a couple hundred yards up the trail.

Missed photo opportunities are just part of the game, yo.

Beech Hill List
Beginning at 9 a.m., I hiked the open trail.

1. American Crow*
2. Dark-eyed Junco
3. Black-capped Chickadee**
4. Tufted Titmouse (v)
5. Pileated Woodpecker
6. American Robin*
7. Northern Flicker

Elsewhere

8. Mourning Dove
9. Herring Gull

v = Voice only
*Also elsewhere
**Voice only elsewhere