flicker
1. Bird Name
Common English name: Flicker
Scientific (Latin) name: Colaptes auratus
2. Appearance
Flickers, also known as “yellow-shafted flicker” or “red-shafted flicker”, are large, brown woodpeckers boasting a distinctive barred pattern across the back with bold, black spotted patterns on the belly. Their undersides show a flash of yellow (in the East) or red (in the West) under the tail and wing feathers. Their beaks are approximately the same length as their head, slightly curved and chiseled shaped which aides them in their constant pecking. The males have a distinguishing black or red mustache, which the females lack.
3. Size
Length: 28-36 cm (11-14 inches).
Wingspan: 42-51 cm (16.5-20 inches).
Weight: 85-167 grams (3-5.9 ounces).
4. Habitat & Distribution
Flickers are widespread across North America. They prefer forests, woodlands, and suburban areas, but can also be found in parks and farmlands, particularly near water. Unlike many woodpecker species, Flickers are adaptable and can survive in different habitat types, including the edge of deserts.
5. Interesting Facts
Flickers are among the few woodpecker species that migrate – a fascinating anomaly. They are also the only woodpecker species that frequently forages on the ground, probably due to their main food source – ants and beetles. In certain Native American cultures, the Flicker is a common motif in jewelry and artwork due to its strong presence in the natural world.
6. Diet
Flickers primarily feed on ants and beetles, digging for them with their curved beaks and long tongues. They also consume berries and seeds, and in summer, they may eat fruits, berries, and nuts.
7. Behavior & Sounds
Flickers are solitary during breeding season, with males calling loudly to establish their territory and display to attract mates. Their song includes a repeating, loud “wick-a-wick-a-wick” sound and a distinctive flickering flight pattern, hence the common name. On the ground, they often hop, rather than walk.
8. Conservation Status
According to the IUCN Red List, the Flicker is listed as “Least Concern”. However, the population trend is decreasing due to habitat destruction.
9. Lifespan
On average, Flickers can live up to 5-6 years in the wild. In human care, their lifespan can extend up to 9 years.
10. Additional Notes
The term “flicker” is believed to be imitative of the bird’s call. The genus name Colaptes comes from the Greek verb colapt, to peck. The specific epithet auratus is from the Latin root aurat, meaning “gold” or “golden” and refers to the bird’s underwing.
Their extensive diet makes Flickers important for controlling populations of many harmful insects, proving their crucial role in keeping the ecosystem balanced. Moreover, their old burrows often serve as nests for other birds, assisting in biodiversity. Despite their numbers dropping, they are still commonly seen in their habitats, making them an essential part of wildlife discovery and bird-watching activities.
