Best Photos of 2016 - January

Best wishes for a healthy, happy and creative 2017. Many of us are glad to see the end of 2016, but are uncertain of what the new year brings. One thing that always makes me happy is to observe nature and try to capture the best of what I observe through photography. I take photos most every day and have selected my favorites here from January 2016:

Red-bellied Woodpecker - this photo reveals how it got its name--not always evident in most photos:

Red-bellied Woodpecker showing off its flashy cape and hood:

Pileated Woodpecker, a rare visitor to my yard. Here it shows off a striking red Mohawk:

Blue Jay--striking markings stand out against the snow:

Some closeups of the small Downy Woodpecker:

Last January was a snowy month so it was a real pleasure to feed the birds and capture them on camera. If you enjoyed these photos, check back in a day or so for the February favorites.