Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker (Intergrade possible)

This is a primary flight feather from a Northern Flicker, a unique large woodpecker. The bird is brown-toned with black spotting, a black crescent on the breast, and a grey or brown cap. Yellow-shafted individuals show brilliant yellow underwings and tail.

Striking bright golden-yellow rachis (shaft). The vane is primarily dark brownish-gray/olive-drab with a subtle golden wash visible on the underside.

Tightly interlocked pennaceous structure for most of the vane to provide air resistance; plumulaceous at the extreme base near the calamus.

Smooth, stiff, and somewhat glossy on the dorsal side. The yellow rachis has a waxy, polished appearance.

Bright yellow rachis, asymmetrical flight vane, dark olive-brown color, and specific emargination on the leading edge.

Open woodlands, forest edges, suburban parks, and backyards. Unlike many woodpeckers, they often forage on the ground for ants.

Widespread across North America from the treeline in Canada and Alaska, south through the United States to the Gulf Coast.

Primary cavity nester; they create holes used by many other species. They are also significant predators of ground-dwelling ants.

Red-shafted Northern Flicker (which has a red/salmon rachis) and the Gila Woodpecker (which lacks the solid dark vane and yellow shaft).

Northern Flickers are one of the few North American woodpeckers that are migratory. They are also known for their 'drumming' on metal chimneys to amplify their territory calls.

Good to Excellent. The vane edges are relatively crisp with minimal fraying, suggesting it was recently molted or from a healthy adult.