Northern Flicker
Colaptes auratus
Northern Flickers are one of Oregon's most common and widely distributed woodpeckers, found in a variety of habitats from open woodlands and forests to suburban parks and backyards. Unlike many woodpeckers, they spend a significant amount of time foraging on the ground, searching for ants and other insects. They are also distinctive for their colorful underwings and tail, which flash prominently in flight.
In Oregon, you will primarily encounter the ed-shafted Flicker subspecies. Distinguishing between male and female Northern Flickers (specifically the Red-shafted type) is quite easy due to clear and consistent plumage differences on their face.
General Appearance (Male and Female - Red-shafted Flicker):
Size & Shape: They are relatively large woodpeckers, about the size of a robin or slightly larger, with a somewhat rounded head, a slightly decurved bill, and a long tail.
Plumage:
Brown body: Overall brownish, barred with black on the back and wings.
White rump: A conspicuous white patch on the rump is visible in flight.
Black crescent: A prominent black crescent on the upper breast.
Spotted belly: A white or pale belly with black spots.
Gray head: The head is generally gray with a brown crown.
Red shafts: The most distinctive feature for the Red-shafted subspecies: the undersides of their wings and tail feathers are salmon-red, which flashes brightly during flight.
Vocalization: Known for their loud, distinctive "wicka-wicka-wicka" call, a sustained, rapid series of "kuk-kuk-kuk" notes, and a long, rolling drum.
Behavior: Often seen foraging on the ground for ants, but also climb trees and drill for insects.
Distinguishing Male and Female Northern Flickers (Red-shafted) in Oregon:
The key to telling male and female Red-shafted Flickers apart lies in a distinct malar stripe (mustache).
1. Malar Stripe (Mustache):
Male Northern Flickers (Red-shafted): Have a prominent red malar stripe (often called a "mustache" stripe) extending backward from the base of the bill across the cheek. This red stripe is usually quite vibrant and stands out against the gray face.
Female Northern Flickers (Red-shafted): Lack this red malar stripe. Instead, the area where the male has red is plain brownish-gray, blending in with the rest of the face.
2. Size (Not Reliable for Field ID):
Females are generally very slightly larger than males, but this size difference is negligible and not a practical field mark for identification. The plumage difference is much more reliable and easily observed.
In Oregon, you will primarily encounter the ed-shafted Flicker subspecies. Distinguishing between male and female Northern Flickers (specifically the Red-shafted type) is quite easy due to clear and consistent plumage differences on their face.
General Appearance (Male and Female - Red-shafted Flicker):
Size & Shape: They are relatively large woodpeckers, about the size of a robin or slightly larger, with a somewhat rounded head, a slightly decurved bill, and a long tail.
Plumage:
Brown body: Overall brownish, barred with black on the back and wings.
White rump: A conspicuous white patch on the rump is visible in flight.
Black crescent: A prominent black crescent on the upper breast.
Spotted belly: A white or pale belly with black spots.
Gray head: The head is generally gray with a brown crown.
Red shafts: The most distinctive feature for the Red-shafted subspecies: the undersides of their wings and tail feathers are salmon-red, which flashes brightly during flight.
Vocalization: Known for their loud, distinctive "wicka-wicka-wicka" call, a sustained, rapid series of "kuk-kuk-kuk" notes, and a long, rolling drum.
Behavior: Often seen foraging on the ground for ants, but also climb trees and drill for insects.
Distinguishing Male and Female Northern Flickers (Red-shafted) in Oregon:
The key to telling male and female Red-shafted Flickers apart lies in a distinct malar stripe (mustache).
1. Malar Stripe (Mustache):
Male Northern Flickers (Red-shafted): Have a prominent red malar stripe (often called a "mustache" stripe) extending backward from the base of the bill across the cheek. This red stripe is usually quite vibrant and stands out against the gray face.
Female Northern Flickers (Red-shafted): Lack this red malar stripe. Instead, the area where the male has red is plain brownish-gray, blending in with the rest of the face.
2. Size (Not Reliable for Field ID):
Females are generally very slightly larger than males, but this size difference is negligible and not a practical field mark for identification. The plumage difference is much more reliable and easily observed.