The northern flicker is a medium-sized bird with a distinct black-and-white speckled pattern on its plumage. Once it takes flight, you can be enthralled by the striking yellow or red hues of its underwing that look like flickering flames.
Due to its beauty, there’s no surprise that many people have wondered about their spiritual meaning. Here we’ll take a closer look at what it means when you see a northern flicker, along with whether or not it may be your spirit animal. Read on to find out more!
The Characteristics of a Northern Flicker
The northern flicker is said to be a creature of balance and has the power to restore harmony between individuals and their environment. Because it can survive in challenging environments, the flicker is also a representation of adaptability and flexibility.
Its long, curving beak can reach areas that other birds cannot, which is another reminder of its adaptability. Due to its propensity to be among the first birds to reappear in an area following a catastrophe like a fire, the northern flicker is also considered a leader.
It is thought that this bird can guide individuals out of challenging circumstances. It is a symbol of strength and courage. There is strength in its capacity to endure adverse conditions and courage for not being afraid to defend its territory from bigger birds and animals.
Because of its vividly colored feathers, the northern flicker is also widely seen as a symbol of creativity, with people reportedly being inspired by the flicker to express themselves in novel and creative ways.
It is also seen as a representation of self-love due to its brilliant plumage, reminding people that they are beautiful and unique just as they are.
There is more meaning too. For example, the northern flicker is also associated with the fire and air elements due to its bright red color (fire) and black-and-white spotted markings in its wings (air).
Symbolism and Meaning
The northern flicker has come to have slightly varied meanings in different cultures. So let’s take a closer look at what this beautiful bird means to different people.
1. Native American
For Native Americans, the flicker is a well-loved bird connected with music, healing, sacredness, and the sun. Native American tribes claim that the crimson streaks on flicker’s head caused by Grandfather Sun were lucky charms.
Finding the red feather of the flicker predicts a happy turn of events, particularly in the domains of friendship or general joy. The yellow feather, meanwhile, brings rejuvenation and healing.
The flicker is a Guardian of the Southern Quarter of Creation for the Hopi. On the other hand, the Chippewa view flicker as a brave animal.
2. Chinese
In Chinese culture, the flicker is a sign of fortune. In paintings and sculptures, it is frequently depicted alongside dragons, another lucky animal. It represents strength and perseverance.
As it is renowned for its capacity to withstand cold and harsh weather conditions, while considered a symbol of hope and resilience in the face of difficulties. It is also associated with the fire element and is referred to as the “firebird” due to its red plumage, which is thought to mimic flames.
3. Celtic
In Celtic mythology, the flicker is associated with the sun deity Lugh. Because flickers are one of the few North American birds with lifelong partners, and the Celts thought that this loyalty continued long after death, the flicker became the symbol for eternity.
Furthermore, they regarded the bird’s crimson breast as a symbol of courage. Thus it is a popular totem among their warriors. In Celtic traditions, birds are mostly connected to femininity, otherworldliness, domesticity, and sovereignty.
4. Greek
In Greek mythology, the woodpecker is the sacred animal of Ares, the god of war. Although there are no flickers in Greece, since they belong to the woodpecker family, they can be connected to Ares too. Their drumming sounds may be interpreted as war drums or the passionate beating of a heart engaged in combat.
Northern Flicker as a Spirit, Totem, or Power Animal
Do you feel the northern flicker could be your spirit, totem, or power animal? If so, read on to see whether or not it’s a perfect fit for you.
1. Spirit Animal
Do you think your spirit animal might be a flicker? If this bird appears to be a guiding force in your life, you are likely a bold achiever with a desire for inventiveness that occasionally verges on the bizarre.
People who have the flicker as their spirit animal aren’t afraid to stand out and are authentic. They speak truthfully, not censoring themselves to fit in.
The flicker spirit animal is frequently found in people who are deeply called to care for and heal others. People with the flicker spirit animal may feel uneasy when they don’t feel like they’re “helpful” enough.
Although having a caring temperament is a good thing, those who identify with this spirit animal might feel the urge to change other people. They might even be drawn to challenging, troubled personalities because they believe they can be most helpful to them.
This is a recipe for disaster that should be avoided. Therefore, those who identify with this spirit animal must overcome that desire and choose the ones they can realistically offer guidance and assistance.
2. Totem Animal
The flicker is a fiercely passionate and intense totem animal. This totem animal represents someone who tends to give things their all. When someone has the flicker as their totem animal, nothing can stop them in their endeavors.
Sadly, this also implies that their attention and work ethic suffer when they are not interested in something. When this happens, they may have struggles staying focused and completing tasks.
Moreover, those with the flicker as their totem animal often have intensely fiery emotions. Since they easily get overwhelmed by their emotions, they could enter relationships too quickly. Though they get angry fast, they rarely harbor resentment once they have calmed down.
3. Power Animal
The two special strengths of the flicker power animal are pattern recognition and rhythm and timing. People with the flicker as their power animal have the ability to notice patterns easily. This means that they have the power to stop negative patterns in their lives.
They also usually can intuitively discern when it is appropriate to take action. They can sustain a consistent spiritual rhythm. Underneath the seeming chaos, there is an intrinsic order for them.
Other Northern Flicker Meanings
There can be other meanings for a northern flicker too, such as in tattoos, dreams, and encounters. Let’s check them out.
1. Tattoo Meaning
A flicker tattoo can have several meanings. First, it stands for creativity and purpose. For someone who expresses themselves best via art, this tattoo design would be ideal. Second, it may also represent untapped potential and inner beauty, as it is a fascinating bird.
Third, it can also be used to symbolize spiritual meaning and resourcefulness. If you are someone who always finds solutions to problems, then this tattoo can serve as a reminder of that strength. Lastly, it is also used to symbolize hope and fresh beginnings. Getting this mark may signify that better days are coming.
2. Flicker in Dreams
Have a flicker appeared in your dream? You can derive a lot of insights and spiritual guidance from it. Dreaming of a flicker making a drumming sound is a reference to the rhythm. Perhaps there is a transition in your life, and you are starting a new routine.
Such a dream typically serves as a reminder that our personal rhythms are the best. Don’t conform to others’ expectations of you. The flicker tells you to put more effort into creating your rhythm, the one that works for you and guides you toward the felicitous future you.
Dreaming of a flying flicker is a sign of unexpected blessings. A stationary flicker might be considered too simple with its speckled feathers. It’s still beautiful, nonetheless.
But once it takes flight, its true colors shine through; the vivid red and golds of its underwing shimmer in the sunlight, mimicking blazing flames. The bird is in its element as it soars through the vast sky.
Thus, dreaming of a flicker in flight means that a pleasant and unexpected surprise is coming your way. Something wonderful would come out of the monotony of life. It might also serve as a reminder to examine your strengths to discover your hidden potential.
3. Flicker Encounters and Omens
Encountering a flicker is a noteworthy occurrence. It leaves an impression of joy and breathtaking beauty. If a flicker comes to visit your home, it means that there is balance and harmony in your house.
Flickers are migratory creatures that fly all over North and Central America. If it chose to land on your house out of all the other possible locations, then it may mean that it has sensed that your home is a safe refuge.
Flickers are typically connected to medicine and healing. Thus a visit from a flicker could also be a sign that your spirit is in dire need of love and care. Since it has the power to soothe and nourish your spirit, the flicker may appear to you while bereaving for the loss of a loved one.
In some cultures, it represents the departed. The flicker appearing at this time gives you the courage to persevere even after a profound loss.
Seeing a flicker may also suggest that you have a creative spirit, as they are musical creatures. Throughout their migration, their drumming and singing pervade the countryside, heralding their arrival. It could indicate that you need to put some effort into cultivating your creativity. It serves as a reminder to be genuine and authentic.
Final Thoughts
As it opens up its wings in flight, you will surely be mesmerized by its striking hues of yellow, red, and gold. The fluttering movements of the wings reveal this magnificent creature’s radiant beauty.
The northern flicker is a bird of various meanings and symbols. It is associated with music, healing, creativity, adaptability, strength, new beginnings, and good luck. It’s no wonder many people choose it as their totem animal.
If you find that you are attracted to this animal, it may indicate that there are lessons that you need to learn from this spectacular species. Be open to changes in your life and embrace the transformation and fresh start awaiting you.
