Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers – April 14, 2026 11:08am | 13x19 Michigan Wildlife Photo, Studio-Signed Matted Print on Pro Luster

About the Birds
Yellow-bellied Sapsuckers are Michigan’s only woodpecker that drills “sap wells” in living trees. They migrate through Metro Detroit every spring. Males have a bright red forehead and throat; females have a red forehead with a white throat. They feed on sap and the insects it attracts. It’s uncommon to catch a male and female working the same tree — they’re usually territorial about prime sap wells.

The Story Behind This Print
Captured: April 14, 2026 at 11:08am in Livonia, Michigan

It was a warm, gloomy mid-April morning. Late-morning is when sapsucker activity peaks because the sap runs strongest. I found this pair sharing one tree, taking turns at the same well.

The overcast sky created perfect conditions: soft, diffused light with no harsh shadows. That’s why you can see every feather detail, the sap glistening on the bark, and the quiet focus in their eyes. I stayed motionless for over an hour to get both birds sharp in one frame.

This isn’t a lucky snapshot. It’s field craft, patience, and knowing Michigan bird behavior.

Print Details

• Paper: 13" x 19" professional Pro Luster archival photo paper. Pro Luster gives rich color, deep blacks, and a subtle texture that reduces glare — rated 100+ years
• Mat: 1" white archival mat, 13x19 outer dimension. The mat overlaps the image edge for a classic gallery presentation, bringing the visible image to ∼11" x 17"
• Frame: Dark wood frame included. Arrives ready to hang
• Signature: Studio-signed by John Pepp. The signature is embedded in the archival printing process to ensure consistency and permanence
• Total Size: 13" x 19" — fits standard frames, no custom work needed
• Edition: Open edition. Printed on demand from my home studio

Authenticity & Shipping
Photographed, printed, and shipped by me, John Pepp, from my home studio in Livonia, MI 48150. This is not AI. Not stock photography. This is a real Michigan moment I personally captured.

Shipping & Returns

Shipping:
All prints ship from my home studio in Livonia, Michigan via UPS Ground with tracking. Most orders ship within 1-3 business days after payment.

Framed 13x19 prints: Ships in a reinforced art box with corner protectors and fragile labeling. Free shipping included on framed orders. Please allow 3-5 business days for delivery within Michigan, 5-7 days nationwide.

Print Only & Matted prints: $8 flat rate shipping or free on orders $100+. Delivery 3-7 business days.

Returns & Damage:
I want you to love your print. If your order arrives damaged, contact me within 48 hours of delivery with photos of the box AND the damage. I'll file the UPS claim and ship a replacement immediately at no cost to you. Please keep all packaging materials for the claim.

For prints damaged by UPS, I cover 100% of replacement + reshipping. For prints damaged after delivery, please handle with care — Pro Luster paper is archival but not indestructible.

Returns for change of mind:
Unframed prints can be returned within 14 days if unused and in original condition. Buyer pays return shipping. Framed prints are custom assembled to order and cannot be returned unless damaged. This is because I can't resell a custom matted/framed piece once it's been opened.

Local Delivery:
Local area buyers can select "Local Delivery" at checkout to skip shipping fees. I'll email you pickup details within 24 hours.

Questions?
Email me directly: jrpepp@pepster.com — I personally pack every order and I'm happy to help.

Questions about the birds or that morning? I answer every buyer email personally. Reply to your order confirmation and I’ll tell you more.