YOUNGSTER - An immature Red-bellied Woodpecker eats oranges in a suet feeder. The young Red-bellied Woodpeckers are the new regulars at the feeders.

BIRD DIMORPHISM PART II - When birds of the same species look different - it is called sexual dimorphism. This female looks nothing like her Red-winged Blackbird mate...in fact, nothing about this bird says "I'm a kind of Blackbird".  Male's flashy plumage may attract mates - but I think this female Red-winged Blackbird is prettier than the male.

SHE LOOKS DIFFERENT - Sexually dimorphic birds exhibit distinct physical differences - like plumage, coloration or size - between males and females of the same species. The Northern Cardinal is a classic example where the males are brilliant, unmistakable red with a black mask, while females (like this one in our yard) are a softer gray/olive-brown tinged with red. The differences are driven by natural and sexual selection. Brighter male plumage helps attract mates, while duller camouflaged female feathers protect them on the nest.