1981 R.L. Mumme Melanerpes formicivorus Black Oak (27 April) in the usual Black Oak Holes, I pick up "the pack" in between Lower Biaa, Black Oak + Sobo. I didn't see any birds or sexes, but 4 birds flew off as if tied together with 6-foot lengths of monofilament line. Incredible! Definitely indicates that they haven't nested yet. Why is the ♂ following so fanatic in this group, and for such a long period (they've been at it at least 3 weeks now). 1640, Picked up "the pack" again in the woods near the old corral confirmed ♂102 unt/yellow, ♀426 Blt-Orange. Also, a couple of unbanded birds here (♂♂, I believe) scrapping with some of the Black Oak helpers (I saw ♂546 Corn/DBlue). The NB were not chased out, 1645. Leaving. Looks like 3 birds here. What's going on. 22 June Walking by at noon, I here birds tapping from inside the old 1979 nest hole. I say "hello" and two birds fly out. Hmm, Could they already have eggs, or are they refurbishing? Will have to check soon. 18 July Walking by the 79 hole, I here the babies inside, so nest is still in progress ** 6 Oct PURGE: J625 not seen after banding, 20 July 1980 (Long overdue purge) 22 Oct Watching granary from hide, 0800. Shitloads of acorns here already. The granary looks full. 1030 End. Good census! Birds seen were ♂426, ♀427 Red/m ♂102 ♀320 Red-Corn/m ♂321 ♂497, ♂545 (not seen since Feb) LBlue/m ♂546 Lcorn/DBlue (Corn-DBlue/m) ♂J689 (in ♂ plumage) J691 (in ♀ plumage)