Species BirdsNorthern Flicker

Northern Flicker

Colaptes auratus

CommonBird
Illustration of Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus)

The Northern Flicker is an unusual woodpecker that forages primarily on the ground, using its curved bill to dig for ants and beetles. In flight it flashes a conspicuous white rump patch and, depending on subspecies, yellow or salmon-red underwings. It is one of the few migratory woodpeckers, moving southward from northern breeding areas each autumn.

Habitat
Open woodlands, forest edges, parks, and lawns
Diet
Ants, beetles, fruits, seeds, and berries
How common
Common

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