Temminck's Stint vs Northern Flicker

Temminck's Stint and Northern Flicker are vastly different in appearance and behavior. Temminck's Stint is a small, short-legged shorebird, while the Northern Flicker is a larger woodpecker with distinctive wing coloration. Focus on size, habitat, and plumage differences for reliable identification.

1. Size: Temminck's Stint is much smaller. 2. Habitat: Look for Temminck's Stint in wetlands; Northern Flicker in wooded or open areas. 3. Plumage: Note the white sides to the tail of Temminck's Stint versus the bright underwing colors of the Northern Flicker. 4. Behavior: Temminck's Stint pecks at the ground in small groups, while Northern Flicker may be seen excavating cavities or foraging on the ground. 5. Vocalization: Listen for the distinct calls; Temminck's Stint's 'tirr' versus Northern Flicker's 'wick-a-wick'.

Temminck's Stint is much smaller at 13–15 cm, whereas the Northern Flicker is larger, typically around 30–35 cm.

Temminck's Stint has dull grey to olive-brown plumage with white sides to the tail and rump, while the Northern Flicker shows bright yellow or red underwing shafts depending on the subspecies, and a distinctive malar stripe.

Temminck's Stint is often seen in small groups pecking at the ground for insects, while the Northern Flicker is a cavity-nesting bird that often forages on the ground for ants.

Temminck's Stint is found in wetland areas, whereas the Northern Flicker inhabits woodlands, urban areas, and open fields.

Temminck's Stint gives a short, hard 'tirr' or 'trrrrit', while the Northern Flicker has a loud, repetitive 'wick-a-wick' call.