Their scientific name, Colaptes auratus, loosely translates to “golden chisel,” referring to their digging behavior and colorful feathers.

Flickers have a slightly curved bill compared to many woodpeckers, which helps them forage in soil.

Their tongues can extend nearly two inches beyond the tip of their bill!

Photo by Bryan Poss

Northern Flickers sometimes nest in the ground in earthen banks, especially in the western part of their range.

The black chest crescent is often called a “bib” and is present in both males and females.

Fossil evidence shows flicker-like birds existed in North America thousands of years ago!

Hybrid flickers can be so variable that identifying them becomes a fun challenge even for experienced birders.