Gilded Flicker vs American Kestrel

In short

The Gilded Flicker and American Kestrel are distinct in both appearance and behavior. The Gilded Flicker is a woodpecker with a strong, chisel-like bill and yellow underwings, while the American Kestrel is a small falcon with a hooked bill and a tendency to hover while hunting.

Identification tips

1. Bill shape: Gilded Flickers have a chisel-like bill; American Kestrels have a hooked bill. 2. Underwing color: Look for yellow underwings in Gilded Flickers. 3. Behavior: Note hovering behavior in American Kestrels. 4. Habitat: Check for desert environments for Gilded Flickers and open fields or urban areas for American Kestrels. 5. Vocalization: Listen for repetitive notes from Gilded Flickers and high-pitched calls from American Kestrels.

Size

The Gilded Flicker is larger and bulkier than the American Kestrel, which is more slender and agile.

Plumage

Gilded Flickers have brown barred backs and yellow underwings, while American Kestrels have a more colorful plumage with a rufous back, blue-gray wings, and distinct facial markings.

Behaviour

Gilded Flickers are often seen on the ground or perched on cacti, while American Kestrels are frequently observed hovering in the air or perched on utility wires.

Habitat

Gilded Flickers are typically found in desert habitats with saguaro cacti, whereas American Kestrels prefer open areas with short vegetation, including urban environments.

Voice

The Gilded Flicker's call is a series of loud, repetitive notes, while the American Kestrel's call is a high-pitched 'klee-klee-klee'.