Northern Flicker

The Northern Flicker’s latin name is Colaptes auratus. They are native to most of North America, parts of Central America, and the Cayman Islands. Their preferred habitat is open areas near trees, including woodlands, forest edges, groves, clearings, burnt areas, yards, parks, streamsides, mangroves, swamps, and marsh edges. The Northern Flicker bird breeds from March to June. They winter in southern parts. Their population status is of least concern.

The Northern Flicker call is a loud, rolling rattle with a piercing tone that rises and falls in volume several times. The Northern Flicker, also referred to as the Northern Flicker Woodpecker because it is part of the woodpecker family, can be found at Coal Creek Farm all year round. Their diet consists of mainly insects, especially ants and beetles. They also eat fruits and seeds. If you search for Northern Flicker images, you’ll discover that it has yellow wing flashes, a white rump, spotted breast and a barred back (which is why it is also referred to as a Yellow Shafted Northern Flicker.)