A Woodpecker By Any Other Name. . . . . . .

Don't you agree she's beautiful? 

Introducing Ms. Northern Flicker.

This morning she arrived early along with some much-needed sunshine

to light up her colorful feathers. Fortunately my camera was ready although 

again I had to shoot through the windows, just too cold to step outside.

Yesterday I managed to catch Mr. - he's in one somewhat blurry photo

 on my previous post - you will note his handsome mustache. Always exciting to 

know there are a pair of specific birds living in the garden - I just know 

baby Flickers must be adorable and perhaps we'll see them come Spring.

Notes on the Northern Flicker from the field guide -

• Size:      12" - non-migrator in the Carolinas
• Male:      Brown and black woodpecker with large white rump patch visible only when flying. Black necklace above speckled breast, red spot on nape of neck, black mustache 
• Female:   Same as male, but lacking mustache
• Nest:       Cavity, female and male excavate, 1 brood per year, 5-8 white eggs
• Food:      Insects

 

The Northern Flicker is the only woodpecker to regularly feed on the ground, 

preferring ants and beetles. Guess those creepy crawlies are currently 

unavailable with ice still blanketing the garden. Our suet feeders are the next best 

thing on a bitterly cold morning such as today.