how to attract northern flickers

3 min read 06-02-2025

Northern Flickers are captivating birds with their striking plumage and unique habits. Attracting them to your backyard can be a rewarding experience for birdwatchers of all levels. This comprehensive guide provides actionable steps to create a flicker-friendly habitat and increase your chances of spotting these beautiful birds.

Understanding Northern Flicker Preferences

To attract Northern Flickers, you must understand their needs. These woodpeckers require specific resources for food, water, and shelter. Let's explore what attracts them.

Food Sources: The Flicker's Feast

Northern Flickers are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of insects, fruits, and berries. Providing these food sources is key to attracting them.

Ants: Flickers are particularly fond of ants. Leave some bare patches of ground near your feeders. This helps attract ants.
Suet: High-energy suet cakes are a great supplement, especially during colder months. Choose suet with insects or nuts.
Fruit: Offer pieces of fruit such as apples, oranges, and berries. Place these on a platform feeder or directly on the ground.
Nuts: Scatter peanuts or sunflower seeds on the ground or in a shallow dish.

Water Source: A Refreshing Drink

Flickers need a reliable water source for drinking and bathing.

Bird Bath: A shallow bird bath with rocks or pebbles for perching is ideal.
Dripper: A gentle dripper adds moving water, further attracting birds. Make sure it's shallow enough for the flickers to reach.

Shelter and Nesting Sites: A Safe Haven

Providing safe spaces is crucial for attracting and retaining Northern Flickers.

Dead Trees: Leave some dead or decaying trees standing if possible. These provide excellent nesting cavities and perching spots.
Nest Boxes: Install nest boxes specifically designed for flickers. These boxes should have large entrance holes.
Dense Vegetation: Plant shrubs and trees to provide cover from predators. This creates a safe environment for feeding and nesting.

Creating a Flicker-Friendly Yard: Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these steps to transform your yard into a Northern Flicker haven:

Assess your yard: Identify areas that could be improved for flicker habitat. Note areas with bare ground, existing trees, and potential locations for feeders and nest boxes.
Clear ground areas: Create small, open areas of ground to attract ants. This is a vital part of their diet. Don't worry about perfect landscaping; natural is best.
Install feeders: Place suet feeders, platform feeders for fruit, and a ground feeder for nuts and seeds.
Add a bird bath: Provide a shallow water source for drinking and bathing.
Plant native trees and shrubs: Select plants that offer food sources like berries and provide protective cover. Research local native plants best suited to your area.
Install a flicker nest box: Choose a nest box with a large entrance hole (around 2.5 inches) and mount it on a tree or post.
Leave some dead trees: If safe, leave a few dead or decaying trees standing. These make excellent natural nesting sites.
Maintain a clean environment: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent the spread of disease.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the best time of year to attract Northern Flickers?

A: Northern Flickers are present year-round in some areas, but they are more easily observed during their breeding season (spring and summer).

Q: How do I know if Northern Flickers are visiting my yard?

A: Listen for their distinctive calls. Look for their characteristic markings, including a black crescent on their chest and barred wings. Look for holes made in trees or wooden structures (evidence of their foraging).

Q: What should I avoid when trying to attract Northern Flickers?

A: Avoid using pesticides that could harm insects, their primary food source. Don't disturb their nests or roosting sites.

By following these tips and creating a welcoming environment, you can significantly increase your chances of attracting these beautiful and fascinating birds to your backyard. Remember to be patient; attracting wildlife takes time and consistency. Enjoy the process of creating a bird-friendly space!