The red back of the Northern Flicker’s head is a distinguishing feature of this medium-sized North American woodpecker. Flickers are members of the Picidae family of woodpeckers and are found across most of North America. The Northern Flicker has several distinctive physical features including a brown back with black barring, a gray face, and a black breast. However, one of the most noticeable characteristics of the Northern Flicker is the red patch found on the back of the male’s head.
This bright red patch stands out against the gray and brown plumage of the rest of the bird. The red coloration is found on the nape, which is the back of the neck right below the head. This crimson patch is prominent during the breeding season but becomes dulled during non-breeding months. The red patch is unique to the Northern Flicker and is not found on other North American woodpeckers. Understanding the purpose and history of the red nape can provide insight into this striking feature of the Northern Flicker.
Purpose of the Red Patch
The red nape of the Northern Flicker serves multiple important purposes:
Species Identification
The bright red patch clearly distinguishes the Northern Flicker from other similar woodpecker species. The red back of the head allows birdwatchers and ornithologists to quickly identify the Northern Flicker in the field. Related species like the Red-shafted Flicker lack the red nape which makes identification straightforward.
Attracting Mates
The red nape is much more vibrant during breeding season and scientists believe it plays an important role in attracting mates. The male Northern Flicker displays the bright red patch during courtship rituals to entice females. Duller red patches indicate a weaker or less healthy male. Females likely use the red patch to assess potential mating partners.
Communication
In addition to attracting mates, the red patch facilitates communication between Northern Flickers. The birds can use the flashing of the red nape to signal warnings or convey other information to fellow Flickers. The eye-catching patch allows for effective non-vocal communication.
Origins of the Red Patch
There are several theories regarding the evolutionary origins of the red nape in Northern Flickers:
- One theory suggests the red coloration originates from the flicker’s diet which consists of ants and other insects. Compounds from this diet may have accumulated in the feathers over time.
- Another idea proposes that the red color was useful to camouflage the flicker as it fed on the ground among autumn leaves.
- Some research indicates the coloration arose through sexual selection. Females preferred males with brighter red patches which propagated the trait.
- The patch may have developed to mimic toxic red wings and heads of other birds to deter predators.
The exact evolutionary route is still debated but it’s clear the red nape provides advantages to Northern Flickers in mating, defense, and communication. Over time, these benefits made the red patch a permanent fixture in the species.
Physical Structure
The red feathers of the nape have distinct physical properties that intensify the color:
- The feathers contain higher levels of carotenoid pigments than other body feathers. Carotenoids create the reddish color.
- Specialized microscopic structures in the feathers reflect certain wavelengths of light. This structuring enhances the deep red hue.
- The rapid turnover of the nape feathers keeps the color vibrant. The feathers are replaced multiple times per year.
These morphological adaptations help generate the bright crimson coloration specifically in the nape region.
Color Variations
While male Northern Flickers generally display red napes, there is some variation in the coloration:
- Younger males have duller orange or pinkish patches until they reach full maturity.
- In some regions, males may have yellow, tan, or even white patches instead of red.
- The coloration fades during winter months when the feathers are not replaced as rapidly.
- In rare cases, females may have partially red patches but they are significantly duller.
Despite these variations, the majority of male Northern Flickers sport the species’ iconic crimson red nape during breeding season.
Role in Native American Culture
The distinctive red patch of the Northern Flicker gained cultural significance for certain Native American tribes:
- Some tribes believed flickers brought protection, healing, and spirituality.
- Flicker wing feathers were often used in rituals and tribal regalia.
- Flicker images were depicted in petroglyphs, pottery, and artwork.
- The Cherokee called the Northern Flicker the “red-headed woodpecker” and associated it with success, guardianship, and fertility.
The vivid red plumage resonated with indigenous groups and reinforced the flicker’s importance.
Geographic Range
The Northern Flicker with its red nape has an extensive geographic range across North America:
- Found across Canada and Alaska
- In the continental US, found east of the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Coast
- Present through Central America
- Northernmost woodpecker species in North America
- Occupies diverse habitats from open woodlands to urban parks
This wide distribution means the Northern Flicker’s crimson patch can be seen over much of the continent. The range overlaps with other flicker species which makes the red nape an invaluable identification marker.
Diet
The varied diet of the Northern Flicker provides nourishment and impacts plumage:
Food Source | Percentage of Diet |
---|---|
Ants and their larvae | 45% |
Beetles | 25% |
Fruit | 20% |
Seeds | 5% |
Caterpillars, spiders, more | 5% |
- Ants are a major food source and likely led to the initial reddish coloration.
- Fruit and seeds provide carotenoids that enhance red feathers.
- The diverse diet provides balanced nutrition for growth and breeding.
Access to carotenoid-rich ants and fruit helps maintain the vibrant plumage.
Courtship Displays
When attracting mates, male Northern Flickers make prominent use of the red nape:
- Rapid head bobbing and wing flicking to flash the red patch
- Stretching the neck to present the nape during bowing displays
- Turning the back of the head toward females
- Ritualized tapping with the bill to draw attention
- Interacting with multiple females at lekking sites
Females assess the males’ performance and redness when selecting a high-quality mate.
Other Cool Facts
- The Northern Flicker excavates nests in tree cavities but also reuses old woodpecker holes and man-made structures.
- You can sometimes hear the loud drumming of the Northern Flicker as it communicates or establishes territory.
- If frightened, flickers will often take flight with an undulating pattern, flashing the white rump feathers.
- The old generic name for Northern Flickers was Colaptes, meaning “chisel bearer” in Greek, referencing their excavating skills.
- Flickers play an important ecological role by creating new cavities for other bird and mammal species to use for nesting.
The Northern Flicker is a remarkable woodpecker both for its carpentry skills and its brilliant red plumage.
Conclusion
The red nape of the Northern Flicker is an integral characteristic of this common North American woodpecker. Male flickers sport this crimson patch to attract mates, communicate with other birds, and warn off competitors. The vibrant color likely arose through sexual selection but may also stem from the flicker’s diet and quest for camouflage. Structural adaptations intensify the hue which can range from bright red to pink or orange depending on the age and region of the bird. Northern Flicker feathers carrying this red patch hold cultural significance for some Native Americans. When traversing open woods, parks, and backyards of North America, keep an eye out for the Northern Flicker’s scarlet plumage flashing in the sunlight. The sight of this colorful feather patch confirms the identity of this charismatic woodpecker.