Northern Flicker (Red-shafted subspecies)
Kingdom: Animalia, Phylum: Chordata, Class: Aves, Order: Piciformes, Family: Picidae, Genus: Colaptes, Species: Colaptes auratus · Picidae (Woodpeckers) · Flight feather (Remiges); specifically a primary wing feather, likely P8 or P9.
Species
Colaptes auratus
Feather Type
Flight feather (Remiges); specifically a primary wing feather, likely P8 or P9.
Family
Picidae (Woodpeckers)
Shape
Asymmetrical vane with a distinct emargination (notching) on the leading edge near the tip; elongated and slightly tapered.
Size
Estimated 14-18 cm (5.5-7 inches) in length. This is consistent with the outer primaries of an adult Northern Flicker.
Rarity
Common; one of the most widespread and frequently encountered woodpeckers in North America.
Color & Pattern
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.
Barb Structure
Densely interlocked pennaceous barbs providing a rigid aerodynamic surface; base of the feather features a short plumulaceous (downy) section for insulation.
Texture & Surface
The surface is smooth and stiff with a waxy, glossy sheen on the rachis. The leading edge is rigid to withstand wind pressure.
Description
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.
Key Features
Brilliant orange-red rachis and inner vane combined with a dark, notched tip are diagnostic for the Red-shafted Northern Flicker.
Habitat
Open woodlands, forest edges, yards, and parks. Frequently seen foraging on the ground in grassy areas.
Geographic Range
The Red-shafted subspecies is found in Western North America, from Alaska through Mexico. Northern populations are migratory.
Condition Notes
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.
Interesting Facts
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.
Ecological Role
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.
Similar Species
Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker (has yellow shafts), Gilded Flicker (pale yellow-cinnamon shafts, found in desert southwest).