The northern flicker, a woodpecker, is often seen on the ground when feeding as its diet largely consists of ants, which can make up as much as 45 percent of its diet, as well as berries and seeds. Its call is often described as a sustained laugh (ki ki ki ki). Look for nests in cavities, usually in trees. In flight, their distinctive coloring shows flashes under the wings and tail. The northern flicker lives to be about seven years old. There are often sightings in March, during the Wings Over Water Birding Festival (March 14-16). For more information, visit wingsoverwaterbirdingfestival.com.
