Northern Flicker Sunning on a Pine Branch in Arkansas

On the morning of July 19, I spotted a Northern Flicker high in a pine tree in my Arkansas yard. The bird was stretched out on a dead branch, wings slightly open, soaking in the warmth of a clear summer day.

It paused there for several minutes, giving me the perfect opportunity to capture the moment.

Sunning Behavior of the Northern Flicker

Northern Flickers (Colaptes auratus) are one of the few woodpeckers that often feed on the ground. However, they also perch high in trees for other reasons. One interesting behavior they show is called sunning.

In this photo, the Northern Flicker rests with wings partly spread and feathers relaxed. This posture may help regulate body temperature or control parasites hiding in the feathers. Additionally, it might serve a social or comfort-related purpose, though that’s still being studied.

I’ve seen similar behavior from other birds in my yard. For example, I recently photographed a Blue Jay sunbathing in my yard, which showed the same pose.

A Still Moment in the Pines

What stood out to me was how long this bird stayed in place. For several minutes, it barely moved at all. That kind of stillness is rare for a Flicker. Normally, they’re busy foraging or hammering into tree trunks.

As a result, I was able to make this photo using my Canon R5  and a long lens. It let me reach the high perch without disturbing the bird. The warm light, detailed texture of the branch, and rich tones in the Flicker’s feathers made it a rewarding shot.

Observing Nature’s Subtle Behaviors

Personally, I’m always drawn to these quiet moments in nature. Sunning may seem simple, but it reveals how birds interact with their surroundings. Moreover, it highlights their ability to adapt and care for themselves in subtle ways.

The more I watch, the more I appreciate the small things that often go unnoticed. Ultimately, it’s moments like this that make backyard birding so rewarding.