A visual comparison of a Hairy vs a Downy Woodpecker.

Today's post is a comparison of the Hairy and Downy woodpeckers.  When viewing these birds in the wild as separate species they really look identical, but together there are some very distinct differences. 

The first picture is of a Hairy Woodpecker. Notice the length of the beak, the actual size and the distinct black pattern below the eye and away from the beak.  It is slighty larger above the wing on the Hairy then that of the Downy.

Female Downy Woodpecker (notice short beak, straight line away from the beek without much downward spread).  The female also does not have a red cap.

Both birds in one shot.  Clearly two different birds.  I wish I could perfect getting both birds in focus.  The Downy looks slighty bothered by the Hairy.  Little scowl on his beak!  :)

Savannah Sparrow, Tundra Swan, Northern Pintail and a Ring-neck duck

These are pictures from the last leg of my New Jersey Trip.  They were taken at the Edwin B. Forsythe Wildlife Refuge located just north of Atlantic City.  It is an amazing section of New Jersey.  It must be completely awesome during migration.  As soon as we entered the refuge, a rather large flock of snow geese took to the air.  Unfortunately, we were too far away to get a good picture.

Today I've posted an assortment of birds.  The savannah sparrow is the first and looks very similar to most other sparrows except for the yellow highlight above its eye.  It runs along the ground really fast too.   I also posted a Tundra Swan.  Looks like a Mute Swan with the exception of the black vs an orange beak.  I posted another picture of the Northern Pintail only because I think they are cool and a Ring-necked duck as well.  Not the coolest duck on the street, but I'd have a beer with him.   

Savannah Sparrow (notice yellow highlights above the eye) 

Tundra Swan (really windy so even using a tripod was tough)

Northern Pintail (male and female)

Ring-Neck Duck