Hi Tweeters,

Some of you may know that I am conducting a research study on nest-site selection and reproductive success of White-headed Woodpeckers (WHWO). The pair of WHWO whose territory encompasses the Wenas Campground are nesting in the campground this year. The pair is in the middle of excavating a cavity and have been at it over 2 weeks now. The cavity is only about half done. I suspect the birds will still be excavating this coming weekend or in the process of laying. The snag they have chosen is much firmer than this species usually chooses, most likely indicating a shortage of well-decayed snags they prefer. Excavation is the most sensitive time for this species and they have been known to abandoned cavities when disturbed while excavating. Therefore, I urge and plead with all campers and birders to please give the birds their space and do not unduly disturb them during this critical time. The nest cavity is located along the far left side of the campground along the road that runs parallel with the hill. The snag leans away from the road (towards the hill) and is next to a live ponderosa pine. I checked the birds last week and the male was there on Friday. I hope to make it back up there this week to check on them.

Thanks for reading. Please follow good birding ethics and hope everyone has a good birdy weekend.

Jeff Kozma
TFW Wildlife Biologist
Yakama Nation