Northern Flicker look-alikes
Colaptes auratus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Northern Flicker. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Gilded Flicker
Colaptes chrysoides
Key differences
The Gilded Flicker is found in the desert Southwest and has yellow underwing/undertail feathers like the Yellow-shafted Northern Flicker, but males have a red malar stripe (like Red-shafted) and a brown cap (Northern Flicker has a gray cap). Its habitat is also more restricted to saguaro cacti and riparian areas in deserts.
Pileated Woodpecker
Dryocopus pileatus
Key differences
Much larger than the Northern Flicker (crow-sized). Has a prominent red crest and extensive black and white plumage. Its flight is also undulating but much slower and more powerful. Does not typically forage on the ground for ants.
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Melanerpes carolinus
Key differences
Smaller than the Northern Flicker. Has a barred black-and-white back and a pale, faintly reddish wash on the belly (often hard to see). Males have a red crown and nape, females only a red nape. Lacks the distinct black breast crescent and white rump of the flicker.
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