Woodpeckers are the heart of North American forests in many ways: their distinctive drumming sounds out a familiar rhythm, while their presence supports owls and a countless other creatures. Award-winning author and photographer Paul will present highlights from his latest book, “Woodpecker: A Year in the Life of North American Woodpeckers” (Mountaineers Books, 2025), which illuminates the often secret lives of this bird family. He captures woodpeckers in every season: their courtship and nest selection in spring; life in the nest during summer; fledging and gaining independence in autumn; and the challenges of surviving the winter. Paul also takes a closer look at the most important woodpecker habitats in North America and what we can do to protect them.

Speaker’s bio:

Seattle-based Paul is an author and wildlife photographer specializing in the natural history of North America, with a focus on birds and habitat. He creates images that foster intimacy between viewer and subject, inspiring education and conservation. He is the author of numerous titles, including two best-selling bird books, “Owl: A Year in the Lives of North American Owls” (Braided River, 2016) and “The Owl and The Woodpecker, Encounters with North America’s Most Iconic Birds” (Mountaineers Books, 2008). Paul has won awards from several prestigious photography contests, including those hosted by Audubon Magazine and the International Conservation Photography Awards. After working in the computer software industry for many years, he transitioned to the non-profit world. He is currently the director of major gifts for Conservation Northwest.