Could that photo of the weasel riding the woodpecker in mid-flight possibly be real?

EAST LONDON, England --  At first glace it is a photo too insane to believe.



Could that REALLY be a weasel riding on the back of a woodpecker in mid-flight?

A wildlife expert told BBC News there is no reason to doubt it.


The photographer who captured the amazing shot is Martin Le-May.  He told Business Insider that he and his wife were walking through a park when they heard an animal in distress.


Le-May told ITV News in an emailed statement that his presence nearby likely startled the weasel which allowed the bird to make its escape by flying away into a nearby bush.


Multiple news organizations also have several more photos provided by Le-May showing the rare moments.   See them here >>Birds GuideITV News, Business Insider.