Colaptes fernandinae Vigors, 1827

Size

Fernandina's flicker is a medium-sized woodpecker, with a length ranging from 14 to 15 inches (33 to 35 cm).

Plumage

Its overall body plumage is mostly yellowish-tan, covered with varying amounts of black barring, and its underwings are yellow.

Sexual Dimorphism

Males have a black mustachial stripe, which females do not possess.

Endemic Range

Fernandina's flicker is endemic to Cuba.

Historical Distribution

While it was apparently never common, it was formerly found across the entire island.

Current Distribution

Currently, it is restricted to isolated locations in nine of Cuba's 15 provinces: Camagüey, Cienfuegos, Granma, Holguín, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Río, Santiago de Cuba, and Villa Clara.

Population

The largest population is located in Zapata Swamp, where an estimated 120 pairs live, though this number may have decreased after recent hurricanes.

Habitat

The natural habitats of Fernandina's flicker include dry forests, dry savanna, swamps, and pastures.