Habitat:
Forests, urban parks, grasslands

Activity period :
Primarily active during the day, with peak activity in the morning and late afternoon.

Identification and description:
The Northern Flicker, or Colaptes auratus, is a captivating bird from the Picidae family. It is distinguished by its striking plumage, blending shades of brown, black, and gold, with red or yellow markings depending on the subspecies. This flicker is widespread across North America, inhabiting various environments from forests to urban parks. Known for its unusual terrestrial behavior for a woodpecker, it is often seen pecking the ground in search of ants and other insects. The Northern Flicker is also famous for its loud drumming, used to mark territory and attract a mate. Although generally tolerant of human presence, it remains vigilant and may quickly fly away if threatened.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Northern Flicker, focus on open areas like parks or grasslands where it is often seen on the ground. Use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture details without disturbing the bird. Be patient and discreet, as it may fly away quickly if disturbed. Observe its behavior and wait for it to perch for feeding or drumming, ideal moments for dynamic shots.