Northern Flicker

(Colaptes auratus)

 

A male Northern Flicker similar to those found on the Presidio.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: The Northern Flicker primarily eats insects, especially ants, but also feeds on seeds acorns, and nuts. It forages on the ground more than any other North American woodpecker. It nests and roosts in cavities and is dependent on snags.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this bird is found in areas of oak and conifer forests and in scrub and grasslands. It is known to have nested near El Polin Spring in recent years.

Frequency: This species is common to abundant in all seasons, but summer, when it is rare.

Identifying Characteristics: This bird has a barred brown back and spotted underparts, and a black crescent bib. The males have a red stripe under the eye. Orange feathers are present under the tail and wings.

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