Northern Flicker (Red-shafted subspecies)

The Northern Flicker is a large, brownish woodpecker with a black bib and spotted underparts. Unlike most woodpeckers, it frequently feeds on the ground for ants. In flight, the 'Red-shafted' western form shows a flash of brilliant orange-red under the wings and tail.

Vibrant salmon-orange to reddish-orange on the ventral side and rachis; the dorsal surface is brownish-grey to blackish towards the tip. No terminal spots on this specific flight feather.

Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs providing a rigid aerodynamic surface; base of the feather features a short plumulaceous (downy) section for insulation.

The surface is smooth and stiff with a waxy, glossy sheen on the rachis. The leading edge is rigid to withstand wind pressure.

Brilliant orange-red rachis and inner vane combined with a dark, notched tip are diagnostic for the Red-shafted Northern Flicker.

Open woodlands, forest edges, yards, and parks. Frequently seen foraging on the ground in grassy areas.

The Red-shafted subspecies is found in Western North America, from Alaska through Mexico. Northern populations are migratory.

Primary cavity nester; they excavate holes in trees that are critical nesting sites for many other 'secondary' cavity-nesting species like bluebirds and small owls.

Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker (has yellow shafts), Gilded Flicker (pale yellow-cinnamon shafts, found in desert southwest).

Northern Flickers are unique among woodpeckers for their preference for eating ants, consuming up to 5,000 in one meal. They are also known to use 'anting' (rubbing ants on feathers) to use formic acid as a parasite repellent.

The feather appears to be in good condition, likely a naturally molted specimen. The tip shows minor wear and slight fraying, which is typical for a flight feather at the end of a molt cycle.