The Guatemalan flicker (Colaptes mexicanoides), is a species of woodpecker in the genus Colaptes native to Central America. It was formerly considered a subspecies of Northern flicker until it was split in 2024 by the AOS.[2]
Taxonomy
The Guatemalan flicker was described in 1844 by Frédéric de Lafresnaye under the name Colaptes mexicanoides.[3] It was later classified as a subspecies of Northern Flicker. Studies in 2023 found that the Guatemalan flicker diverged as a species even earlier than the Gilded flicker.[4] Differences were also found in vocalizations.
Description
The Guatemalan flicker resembles a red-shafted flicker but has a more distinct cap and a black and gold back rather than a brown and black back.
Calls
The "long call" of Guatemalan flickers is of a different, usually higher frequency and pacing than other flickers, with longer notes.[4]
