Friday's Foto

The name Yellow-bellied Sapsucker has been the punchline for many jokes. In fact, I'm sure that there are some people who still think it is a lampoon name and not a real bird. They are named for their habit of drilling holes into trees allowing sap to drip down the trunk. Not only do they lap up the sap, but also eat insects that are attracted to it. Hummingbirds, bats and porcupines are also known to drink from the sap holes. They are eastern North America's only completely migratory woodpecker. Wintering as far south as Panama, a small number can always be found overwintering in NYC parks, cemeteries and backyards. The IUCN Red List lists the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker conservation status as "Least Concern". The scientific name, Sphyrapicus varius, means hammer (or mallet), diverse.