Northern Flicker

Colaptes auratus

A common woodpecker with very impressive plumage that brings to mind a more exotic bird, this flicker displays a fantastic combination of patterns and colors. The ones seen in Rhode Island have black spots on its breast, a red downward arrow on the back of its head, and a tail with an underside that is bright yellow. It can be observed perched on a tree, but it also likes to forage on the ground for ants, their favorite food. They linger along the edges of pavement and sidewalk cracks, where ants often build their nests. When in flight, and seen from behind, it has a large white spot on the rump.

There are two color variations in North America, with the birds found in the eastern region being "yellow-shafted" while the ones on the west are "red-shafted." This describes the color found on the underside of the wings and tail. The western birds also lack the red crescent marking on the back of the head and the black patch on the cheek is red.