The Red-bellied Woodpecker (Melanerpes carolinus), is a medium-sized woodpecker, and it's common name is somewhat misleading, as the most prominent red part of its plumage is on the head; the Red-headed Woodpecker however is another species that is a rather close relative but looks entirely different. I am told the red belly is normally difficult to view on live birds!
In the grounds of our hotel in Mexico there was a Cooks Garden. At the entrance to the garden was a large gateway made of thick wooden posts. While passing the garden one morning I heard the distinctive call of a woodpecker, and went into the garden to investigate. On the opposite side of the gateway, away from the path, I discovered a woodpeckers nest! I sat quietly and the woodpecker returned to the hole and allowed me to get close enough to take these shots.
