1982 R.C. Mumme Melanerpes formicivorus Road 3 Hastings Reservation 21 Feb Unusually slow granary census, 1150-1350, on a very warm sunny day. Only the core 3 (♂84, ♂68, ♀265) seen. Other birds heard off to the side of RC Hill, but nobody else came to the granary. Maybe it's such a nice day, all the helpers are out exploring for breeding vacancies. 24 Feb A late "0800" granary watch, 0900-1100. Complete census, save for the elusive ♀710: ♂84, 68, 537, 654, 655, 656 ♀265 all seen well. Surprisingly, a lot of dominance action, including ♀265 pecking at ♂ Juices. Interesting! Also ♂84 and ♂68 showed a bit of interest in the 1979-80-81 nest hole, so they may yet choose it. 10 March ** GROUP UPDATE ♂709, ♂710 disappeared 25 Nov 1981 ± 2 weeks Both were last seen on 6 Nov, certainly gone by 14 Dec. Could they have dispersed (Calo-g with ♂618) or are they death? 29 March Counted stores, 1730: Valley Oak 975 Sycamore 1625 TOTAL 2600 Doesn't appear that guarding of ♀265 has begun yet. A bird; I'm fairly certain was her was in the top of the Valley Oak when I drove up, unattended by any other bird. A ♂ was looking out of the 80-81 nesthole, so perhaps they will nest there again 30 March A quick look, 12030: No evidence of mate guarding or a nest in progress