Bestselling author-photographer Paul Bannick calls woodpeckers “the heartbeat of our forests.” He’ll speak on the topic, based on his latest book, Woodpecker: A Year in the Life of North American Woodpeckers, at two March 26 lectures at the J.N. “Ding” Darling National Wildlife Refuge on Sanibel Island.
Bannick’s lectures take place at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. in The Roost at the “Ding” Darling Visitor & Education Center, part of the 21st annual “Ding” Darling Winter Lecture Series.
Bannick has written five other books about woodpeckers and owls. His work also has been featured prominently in bird guides from Audubon, Peterson, The Smithsonian, Stokes, The National Wildlife Federation, and Birds of the World; and has appeared in a variety of publications from The New York Times and Birds and Blooms to American Way and the Seattle Times.
The photographer has appeared on NBC Nightly News, Evening Magazine, and dozens of NPR stations and programs, including Travels with Rick Steves and BirdNote. He will be signing copies of his books following the lecture, available to purchase that day or in advance at the DDWS Nature Store, whose profits directly benefit refuge programs.
While the refuge auditorium is undergoing renovations, all remaining 2026 lectures will take place in The Roost outdoor pavilion. Seating is limited on a first-come basis. Guests are welcome to bring their own lawn chairs to ensure a seat. Most of the open-air seating is under cover, however DDWS suggests sunscreen, bug spray, and weather-appropriate attire.