See all posts in the Birds of Carver County series
The Northern Flicker (Colaptes auratus) is one of our most attractive birds, with colors and patterns that make it unique within the woodpecker family and a standout visitor to our yard feeders.
In Carver County, the Yellow-shafted version provides us with a quick view of bright yellow under-wing and tail feathers when they take flight. Other distinctive plumage includes black barring on its brown back, a large white patch on its lower back, a black crescent on its chest, black spots on its belly, a red chevron on the nape of its neck, and a black “mustache” on the cheeks of males.
The name Flicker may come from its flashing or flicking its wings during mating displays or territorial conflicts. The “Northern” adjective separates this species from its relatives found in the southwestern United States and in central America and South America.
In the western U.S., a Red-shafted version can be found with a red mustache and an all-gray neck.
The Flicker feeds on the ground during warmer months, using its long tongue and large and powerful beak to hunt ants. In the winter, some Flickers migrate south, but fortunate birders can attract year-round residents with suet and seed trays.
It will also consume berries and insect larvae. This adaptability to seasons and food sources makes it possible to see Flickers just about anywhere in Minnesota.
Northern Flickers are about 12” long, with wings about 20” wide. Their size and bold demeanor enable both sexes to aggressively defend their nest against birds and squirrels.
They are active nest-builders, chiseling out holes in dead trees or branches.
The species is a key indicator of a healthy environment, and its nests are used by many other bird species. They will both incubate their eggs and provide nestlings with food during the month following hatching. A pair forms by the end of April and most will stay together until one of them dies. Flickers probably live less than nine years.
The calls of the Flicker are distinctive but vary according to breeding and seasonal factors. During the warm months, when seeing them is hampered by greenery and ground cover, it is useful to be able to recognize their calls. The website All About Birds and birding apps such as Merlin Bird ID provide audio resources to help you know when one of these attractive birds is calling nearby.
For more information:
- The Sibley Guide to Birds, David Allen Sibley
- Birds of Minnesota, Robert B. Janssen
- Breeding Birds of Minnesota, Pfannmuller, Niemi and Green
- The Audubon Society’s Encyclopedia of North American Birds, John K. Terres
- Birds of the World, Cornell Lab of Ornithology Link
- Online: All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Northern Flicker.
