Fernandina's Flicker
NameFernandina's Flicker
Common NameFernandina's Flicker
Scientific NameColaptes fernandinae
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)34
Weight (g)105
Plumage DetailsUpperparts and underparts are heavily barred with blackish-brown and yellowish-white or buff. The head is a distinctive yellowish-orange to cinnamon-buff, often with fine streaking. The rump is white, and the flight feathers and tail often show yellow shafts. Males possess a small red malar stripe (mustache) which is absent in females.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of rapid 'wick-wick-wick' notes, similar to other flickers but often described as softer or more rapid. They also produce a sharp 'kyeer' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to Cuba, found in open woodlands, savannas, pastures with scattered trees, and palm groves, often near water.
Identifying FeaturesHeavily barred black and yellowish-white plumage, Yellowish-orange to cinnamon-buff head, Long, slightly decurved bill, Ground-foraging behavior, Yellow shafts in flight feathers and tail (often visible), Red malar stripe in males
Description
The Fernandina's Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker endemic to Cuba, known for its distinctive barred plumage and ground-foraging habits. It typically excavates nesting cavities in dead palms or other trees, as seen with the adult and chick in the image.
