This photo, taken by photographer Keith Dennis Brewer on May 13, 2025, in the backwoods of Zealand, New Brunswick, captures a striking image of a Yellow-bellied Sapsucker perched on the branch of a budding tree against a vivid blue sky.
The Yellow-bellied Sapsucker (Sphyrapicus varius) is a species of woodpecker native to North America. It's recognized by its bold black-and-white plumage, pale yellow underparts, and the vivid red forehead and crown, which is especially prominent in males. The bird in this image appears to be a male, given the clear red on its head.
These birds are known for drilling neat rows of holes in tree bark to feed on sap and the insects attracted to it. They're often heard before they're seen, as their rhythmic tapping resonates through the forest. This photograph beautifully highlights the bird’s natural camouflage amid the branches, emphasizing both its adaptability and the harmony of nature.
Keith’s choice to shoot from below, framing the sapsucker between crossing limbs, not only draws the eye directly to the subject but also evokes the quiet stillness of a spring morning in the Canadian wilderness. The image captures not just a bird, but a fleeting moment of connection between wildlife and observer.
A true testament to Keith’s love of nature and eye for detail, this photo reminds us how rich and alive the backwoods of New Brunswick truly are.
Keith Dennis Brewer has photographed the Yellow-bellied Sapsucker on several occasions throughout his time exploring the backwoods of New Brunswick, yet each encounter feels just as special as the first. This bird, with its bold markings and curious behaviour, never fails to capture his attention. There’s something about the way it blends into its environment—while still standing out with its distinct red crown and patterned feathers—that draws Keith in every time.
Though he's familiar with its habits and often recognizes its tap-tap-tap long before seeing it, Keith believes that nature never repeats itself exactly. The lighting, the angle, the feeling of the moment—each photograph becomes a unique story. This is what he loves about photography: the chance to document whatever crosses his path, whether it’s a rare wildlife sighting or a common creature doing something extraordinary. He doesn’t chase perfection; he captures presence.
To highlight the timeless beauty of the forest and the character of this remarkable bird, here are two more photos presented in black and white. Stripped of colour, these images emphasize texture, contrast, and the raw form of the scene—offering a new perspective on a bird Keith deeply respects.
The last photo shown is actually the same as the first—just re-edited into black and white. Keith Dennis Brewer often revisits his photos to explore different moods and effects, and in this case, he felt that removing the colour brought something extra to the image.
While the original showcases the rich blue sky and the bird’s vibrant red crown, the black and white version draws attention to contrast, structure, and light. The tangled branches become more pronounced, the patterns in the bird’s feathers more dramatic, and the overall composition takes on a timeless, almost nostalgic feel.
Keith has always appreciated the power of black and white photography. Though he thrives on the natural colours of the outdoors, he knows that sometimes, stripping an image down to its tonal elements can bring out a deeper emotional layer. It invites the viewer to slow down, to study the details, and to connect with the subject in a different way. For Keith, it's another form of storytelling—one that's simple, yet striking.
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