It is very difficult to attract northern flickers to Georgia backyards; however, it can be done. One of the best ways is provide roost sites for these large birds. For example, leave dead trees in which large holes have been excavated or enlarged by squirrels and cavity nesting birds.

       Flickers also roost in barred owl nest boxes. If you see a flicker enter an owl-nesting box, do not be discouraged if it does not return the next evening.  It seems that male northern flickers tend to roost in different location each night.  These roosting sites are usually located within a half-mile square area.  If roosting cavities are scarce in your neighborhood, the bird may return sooner than later.

       Friends of mine find flickers roosting in wood duck boxes during the winter.  They have noted that flickers tend to enter the boxes earlier in the afternoon than do the other birds that also roost in boxes.  The flickers that show up at their wood duck boxes often arrive well before the sun drops below the horizon.

       Northern flickers will also roost in variety of odd locations such as under bridges. They will also use our homes as roosting sites.  For example, they will sometimes roost on the sides and eaves of buildings, and even inside chimneys.

       If you have seen northern flickers in your, I would love to hear about it.