09/05/2026
I didn't realize yesterday I had captured a pair of pileated woodpeckers. The female is the first photo, with no red stripe down the sides of her face. The males have the red stripe. They will stay mated for life or until one of them dies. The depth of connection that wild animals forge with each other runs counter to how they are talked about. Words like "harvested" are used when in reality you are taking the life of a sentient being without their consent or permission. Private property is an excuse to kill snakes and insects indiscriminately despite them never giving permission for the wetlands or forest to be destroyed. People say "it's MY yard" when it's been stolen from it's original inhabitants.
Interactions with wildlife are so casual, even when their death is the result. Animals feel emotions, they feel grief and joy. They have their own ways of communicating that we mostly still do not understand. Kindness to an individual animal in need is also kindness to their loved ones, and it's kindness that the world desperately needs, and it's a kindness that we ultimately give to ourselves. It's never "just an animal" or "just a bird". Every one of these beautiful Earthlings has just as much of a right to be here as any of us, including the forests that they call home. There is nowhere else in the universe where you'll find oak trees and birds.
The death of an animal can also mean a quiet forest with a lonely mate waiting for a familiar call that will never come again. Be careful, slow down for animals, and stop if you see an animal in distress. If you find an animal in need of help, you can call FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 1-888-404-3922 to speak to someone that will help you find a rehabber.
Pileated Woodpeckers
Levy County, Florida
September 4th, 2026
