Northern Flicker
NameNorthern Flicker
Common NameNorthern Flicker
Scientific NameColaptes auratus
FamilyPicidae
Wingspan (cm)46.5
Length (cm)32
Weight (g)128
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are brown with black barring, while the underparts are white to buff with numerous black spots and a large black crescent on the chest. Males have a red nape patch and a black malar stripe (mustache). The underwings and undertail feathers are typically bright yellow (Yellow-shafted subspecies) or red (Red-shafted subspecies).
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, ringing 'kik-kik-kik-kik' series, a long, descending 'wick-wick-wick-wick' call, and a sharp 'kyeer' note.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from Alaska and Canada south through the United States and into parts of Central America. Some northern populations migrate south for winter.
Identifying FeaturesSpotted belly, Black crescent on chest, Red nape patch (males), Black malar stripe (males), Yellow or red underwings/undertail, Ground foraging behavior
Description
The Northern Flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker known for its distinctive spotted underparts and a prominent black crescent on its chest. Unlike many woodpeckers, it frequently forages on the ground for ants and other insects.
