Red-breasted Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus ruber), Lower Madera Canyon, Whitehouse Picnic Area, Pima County

This Red-breasted Sapsucker was discovered by Brian Uher-Koch on 22 December 2010, although it was first reported on 27 December 2010 by Allen W. Jahn, Wayne Jahn, and Dr. Jeffry A. Jahn. It was photographed by Brian Uher-Koch on 22 December 201 and by Laurens Halsey on 28 December 2010.

Casual transient and winter visitor to Arizona.

Red feathering extends down the breast without evidence of a black breast band, and feathers on the back of the crown and nape are red-tipped. The sapsucker face pattern is very indistinct.  The back and face pattern suggest this bird could be of the nominate race (S. r. ruber). 

22 December 2010, photos by Brian Uher-Koch

28 December 2010, photos by Laurens Halsey

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