SOME OHIO BIRDS 
45 
with the locality, is the largest common species of the family, found 
generally throughout the state. In winter, their numbers are much 
diminished and they are confined to the more protected lowlands. 
The nest may be near the top of a lofty forest tree, or in a shade or 
orchard tree, but a few feet from the ground. Unlike other mem¬ 
bers of the family, this species is more or less terrestrial in its habits, 
and is frequently seen on lawns, feeding on ants which compose its 
favorite food. More than three thousand of these insects have been 
taken from a single stomach. Grasshoppers and crickets are eaten 
in large numbers. In some states the Flicker is classed as a game 
bird, but it is of too great economic value to be sacrificed for food. 
YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER, Sphyrapicus varius varius (Linn.) 
This species is the only injurious member of the family found 
within the state. A large part of its food consists of the cambium 
layer (inner bark) and sap 
of trees. It works largely 
on the live wood, the holes, 
usually arranged in rows, 
varying greatly in size. 
Through these wounds 
the spores of various 
fungi enter, resulting in 
the disfigurement or, if 
completely girdled, in the 
death of the tree. It is 
common only as a mi¬ 
grant in spring and fall; 
a few nest in the north 
and some winter in 
southern Ohio. The in¬ 
jury done in the state is 
probably not very great; 
it is, perhaps, most seri¬ 
ous to ornamental and 
shade trees, including 
both deciduous kinds and 
evergreens. This species 
may be distinguished from the Downy Woodpecker, with which it is 
sometimes confounded, by its larger size, black band across the 
breast, and pale-yellow lower breast and belly. Its call note is 
weak, and suggests that of the Catbird. 
YELLOW-BELLIED SAPSUCKER, Sphyrapicus 
varius varius (Linn.) 
Fig. 
12. After Bulletin 39, Biological 
Survey, U. S. D. A. 
