Documentation of
Northern Flicker
2008-157
Observer Information
Reporter:
Terry Wintory
Other Observers:
Shelley Wintory; I am the original sighter and my wife is the other observer.
Species, Date, Time and Location Information
Species:
Northern Flicker
First Date/Time:
3/15/2008
Last Date/Time:
Duration (total time in view):
15 min
County:
Adams
Specific Location:
2030 E 101st Ct. Back yard of residence in Thornton.
Number:
2
Age:
Unknown
Sex:
Multiple Birds - Mixed
Plumage:
Other/Unknown
Habitat
Feeding at my feeders and on the ground. Sitting on my deck and surrounding fencing.
Viewing Conditions
Optics:
Binoculars and camera with telephoto lens.
Distance:
15 feet to edge of deck.
Light:
Morning sunlight on 03/15/08 but frequently seen at all times of day.
Description of the Bird
I believe this is a hybrid of the Red Shafted/Western and the Yellow Shafted/Eastern species. It has sharp, well-defined features of both. Two males and two females are seen frequently in my yard in Thornton. Only the males are included in the siting because of the red identifying markings.
Behaviors: Sitting on my feeders and fencing as well as ground foraging. One of the four frequently sleeps under the cover of my front porch.
Call: none heard
Plumage: Red malar & red crescent on nape.
Similar Species Discussion
I used the Sibley Field Guide to Birds of Western North America to identify the two species of Flicker and could not find reference to a hybrid.
Resources Used
I contacted a local author on birding (whose name I no longer recall) and she said it was likely a hybrid.
Previous Experience
For whatever reason, this is the only subspecies of Flicker that inhabits my yard.
Notes
Notes made DURING observation
Additional Information
Materials Available
No files uploaded.
Date Documentation Submitted
4/28/2008 5:41:00 AM