The Flicker is one of our larger woodpeckers. Like the even larger Pileated Woodpecker, they are shy and reclusive. They are difficult to approach and the best strategy is to wait for them to come to you. This male has come to our peanut feeder. Males are identified by the black "mustache" that extends from the bill along the lower part of the head.
Among other identifying marks, the Flicker has golden shafts under its wing and tail feathers which are visible when it flies. They are just barely visible in this picture
Last month we devoted a page to the Downy Woodpecker (above) and the Hairy Woodpecker (below). These have continued to visit us and we offer these pictures of them. Notice how heavy the bill is on the Hairy.
