Bird Identifier
Flicker (Colaptes spp.)
Aves, Picidae

Flicker (Colaptes spp.)

Flickers are larger woodpeckers known for their distinctive calls and ground foraging behavior. They often feed on ants and beetles.

Explore Flicker (Colaptes spp.) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own birds.

Get a report just like this from any photo or call, free.

Plumage & appearance

Brown and white body with black spots, distinct red markings on the head and a stroke across the eyes

Ecological significance

Act as important indicators of forest health and help control insect populations

Conservation status

Least Concern, but habitat loss poses risks

Observation tips

Look for them in open woodlands, parks, and at ground level, especially in the spring when they are more vocal.