Northern Flicker Eastern U.S. enjoying a Winter Fountain

by Sandi Long
(Southern New Jersey)

This winter we've added a heater to our backyard birdbath fountain and it's created a wonderful winter habitat for the wildlife in our backyard.
In February the temperatures were hovering under freezing temperatures and our heated birdbath seemed to be one of the only true water resources around.
On Saturday we were having one of our South Jersey snowy days and the local wildlife were enjoying our feeders in the back yard.
Oddly enough, of all the timing, we were watching a video about Woodpeckers. We'd had recent visits from a Red Bellied friend, and we were listening and watching a video about their mating and habitats.
Of all the times, I looked outside and what was outside our window? A Woodpecker! But it wasn't a red bellied. So WHAT was it? What was this NEW woodpecker at our birdbath? Better hurry and grab the camera! So I did!

The beautiful visitor stayed for a while. It took a few drinks and shook off the excess snow and water. Luckily enough, during this short visit, I was able to snap a few photos and even grab a quick video!
After the bird left, we matched the markings to a chart we keep nearby for bird watching. And there it was! Something we'd NEVER seen before!

A beautiful NORTHERN FLICKER!

So glad to grab some pictures while the visitor was here. We didn't quite see the front of the face. Just for a second, that's all.
But we did see great views of the profile and managed lots of views all in all.

What a joy to see this new visitor at our backyard!

February 21st, 2015 on a Cold Winter Day in Southern New Jersey.