The scientific name of the Grand Cayman yellow-shafted flicker is Colaptes auratus caymanensis. Colaptes auratus refers to the widespread Northern flicker species, while caymanensis indicates this is a unique subspecies endemic to the Cayman Islands.

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Identification

This large woodpecker measures the same as other subspecies. Like, 11-13 inches in length with an 18-inch wingspan. It closely resembles the Northern Flicker but has some subtle physical differences. Its plumage is primarily grayish-brown on top with black barring, while the underparts are buff-colored with black spotting.

Location

The Grand Cayman yellow-shafted flicker is found exclusively on Grand Cayman Island in the Caribbean Sea. It inhabits a range of wooded habitats across the island including pine forests, mangrove swamps, and scrublands. Being isolated on an island, this subspecies does not migrate.

Unique Traits

This insular flicker has evolved some unique traits compared to mainland Northern flickers. It is smaller in size, has shorter wings, and has a proportionately smaller bill. The wings have also lost the white crescent marking seen in mainland flickers.

Unlike Northern flickers, the Grand Cayman flickers rarely drum to establish territory. Due to the lack of ants on Grand Cayman, it has adapted to feed on a wider array of insects and even lizards.

FAQs

01. Why doesn’t the Grand Cayman flicker migrate?

Being found only on the isolated island of Grand Cayman, this subspecies does not need to migrate anywhere. Its year-round habitat provides sufficient food.

02. What is the Grand Cayman flicker’s habitat?

This flicker inhabits a variety of wooded areas across Grand Cayman Island including pine forests, mangroves, and scrublands.

03. How does the Cayman differ from the Northern Flicker?

The Cayman flicker is smaller with shorter wings and, a smaller bill, and lacks the white crescent wing marking. It rarely drums and has adapted its diet due to the lack of ants on the island.

Verdict

The Grand Cayman yellow-shafted flicker is a unique insular subspecies of the Northern flicker endemic to the Cayman Islands. Its scientific name Colaptes auratus caymanensis indicates it is a regional variant of the widespread Northern flicker. With its golden flashing wings and adaptation to island life, this tropical flicker is a specialty of Grand Cayman’s pine forests and mangroves.