Northern flickers nest in cavities they excavate themselves, typically in dead or decaying trees, utility poles, and occasionally in wooden buildings or nest boxes. These large woodpeckers are unique among North American woodpeckers for their strong ground-feeding habits, but when it comes to raising young, they are dedicated cavity nesters that return to the same general area year after year.
Background: The Flicker’s Place in the Woodpecker Family
Northern flickers (Colaptes auratus) are members of the woodpecker family Picidae, but they stand out for their migratory behavior and their diet of ants and beetles, which they forage for on the ground. They are found across most of North America, with two main color forms: the yellow-shafted flicker in the east and the red-shafted flicker in the west. These forms interbreed where their ranges overlap, producing hybrids with orange shafts. Unlike many woodpeckers that cling to tree trunks while feeding, flickers often hop on the ground, probing soil and leaf litter with their slightly curved bills. Their nesting behavior, however, remains true to their woodpecker lineage: they excavate a new cavity each year, usually in a tree with soft wood, such as aspen, cottonwood, or birch, or in a dead snag. They also readily use man-made structures, which has made them a common subject of nest box programs.
Excavation and Site Selection
Flickers typically begin excavating their nest cavity in late March or April, depending on latitude. The male does most of the digging, though the female assists. They choose trees that are dead or have a decayed core, which makes excavation easier. The entrance hole is roughly oval, about 2.5 to 3 inches wide, and leads to a cavity that can be 10 to 24 inches deep. The interior is bare, with only a layer of wood chips at the bottom. Flickers do not line the nest with grass or feathers. They may use the same tree in successive years, but they almost always dig a fresh cavity, as old ones accumulate parasites and bacteria. In urban or suburban settings, they have been known to excavate into wooden siding, eaves, and even stucco, which can cause conflict with homeowners. Providing a nest box can be an effective alternative, as flickers will readily accept a well-placed box.
Eggs and Incubation
The female lays a clutch of 5 to 8 eggs, though clutches can range from 3 to 12. The eggs are pure white, smooth, and slightly glossy, as is typical for cavity-nesting birds. Incubation lasts about 11 to 14 days, with both parents sharing the duty. The male typically incubates at night, while the female takes over during the day. The eggs are laid at intervals of about one per day, so hatching is asynchronous, meaning the chicks in a single brood can vary in age by several days. This can lead to size differences among nestlings, but food is usually abundant enough that most survive. The parents are attentive and will aggressively defend the nest cavity from predators, including squirrels, snakes, and other birds. They may also engage in a behavior called “mobbing,” where they call loudly and dive at intruders.
Nestling Development and Fledging
Flicker chicks are altricial, meaning they are born naked, blind, and completely dependent on their parents. Both parents feed them regurgitated insects, primarily ants, which are rich in protein and fat. The chicks grow rapidly, and their eyes open at about 5 days. They develop pin feathers within a week, and by two weeks they are fully feathered. The parents continue to feed them for about 25 to 28 days, after which the young fledge. Fledging usually occurs in June or July. After leaving the nest, the young follow their parents for a few weeks, learning to forage on the ground. They may beg for food even after they are capable of feeding themselves. Flickers typically raise one brood per year, though a second brood is possible in southern parts of their range if the first is lost early.
Nest Boxes for Northern Flickers
If you want to attract flickers to nest on your property, a properly constructed and placed nest box can work well. The box should be made of wood, with an entrance hole about 2.5 inches in diameter. The interior dimensions should be roughly 7 inches by 7 inches, with a depth of 16 to 18 inches from the entrance to the floor. The box should have drainage holes in the bottom and ventilation near the top. Mount the box on a pole or tree trunk, 6 to 20 feet above the ground, with the entrance facing east or southeast to avoid prevailing winds and hot afternoon sun. Fill the bottom of the box with 2 to 3 inches of wood shavings, as flickers do not bring in nesting material. Place the box in an open area with scattered trees, as flickers prefer to forage on short grass or bare ground. It is important to clean the box out after each breeding season to remove old nesting material and parasites. Flickers are more likely to use a box if it is placed near their preferred foraging habitat and away from heavy human disturbance.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
A common misconception is that flickers will abandon a nest if a human touches the eggs. In reality, most birds, including flickers, have a poor sense of smell and will not abandon a nest due to human scent. However, it is always best to minimize disturbance. Another issue is competition from European starlings and house sparrows, which are invasive species that often take over cavities. If starlings are a problem, you can make the entrance hole smaller (but still large enough for flickers) or place the box in a location that starlings avoid, such as near dense vegetation. Flickers are also known to drum on metal objects, such as gutters and chimney caps, as a territorial display. This can be annoying but is not related to nesting. If a flicker is excavating a hole in your house, you can discourage it by covering the area with netting or a metal flashing, or by providing a nest box nearby as an alternative. It is illegal to harm or kill flickers, as they are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
Conservation and Relationship with Humans
Northern flicker populations have declined in some areas due to habitat loss and competition for nesting sites. They are also vulnerable to being struck by cars while feeding on roadsides, where ants are abundant. However, they remain a common and widespread species. Flickers play an important ecological role by controlling ant populations and by creating cavities that are later used by other wildlife, such as bluebirds, chickadees, and small owls. Their presence is often welcomed by birdwatchers, but their excavating behavior can be a nuisance when they choose human structures. Understanding their nesting habits can help people coexist with these fascinating birds, whether by providing nest boxes or by taking simple steps to protect buildings. Flickers are a prime example of a species that can adapt to human-altered landscapes, provided we offer a few accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do northern flickers nest in the ground? No, despite their ground-feeding habits, northern flickers are cavity nesters and always nest in trees or artificial structures. They do not dig burrows in the ground like some other bird species.
When do northern flickers lay eggs? The timing varies by location, but in most of their range, flickers lay eggs in April or May. In the southern parts of their range, they may start as early as March. The exact timing depends on local climate and food availability.
How can I attract northern flickers to my yard? Provide a nest box with the correct dimensions, place it in an open area, and offer a food source. Flickers eat ants and other ground insects, so avoid using pesticides that would eliminate their food. A suet feeder can also attract them during the non-breeding season.
Will northern flickers use a birdhouse? Yes, they will readily use a properly designed nest box, especially if it is placed in a suitable habitat. The box should have a 2.5-inch entrance hole and be mounted 6 to 20 feet high.
Do northern flickers return to the same nest every year? They often return to the same territory, but they typically excavate a new cavity each year. They may use the same tree, but they will usually dig a fresh hole rather than reuse the old one.
Are northern flickers aggressive during nesting? Yes, they can be quite defensive of their nest cavity. They will chase away intruders, including other birds, squirrels, and even humans who get too close. They may also perform a “drumming” display on nearby objects to signal their presence.
Related
- Lowest Female Population Share by Country
- Major Religions in the UAE: A Complete Guide
- Reporting Verbs with If Clauses: A Clear Guide
How pages are sourced and corrected: Sources and editorial policy.