What behavior distinguishes the Flicker genus (*Colaptes*) from the Red-bellied Woodpecker genus (*Melanerpes*)?

The Flicker genus spends significantly more time foraging on the ground for ants

Within the same subfamily, differences in ecological niche partitioning are often reflected in genus-level classifications. While both the Flicker genus (*Colaptes*) and the Red-bellied Woodpecker genus (*Melanerpes*) belong to the woodpecker family, their foraging strategies diverge. The Red-bellied Woodpecker (*Melanerpes carolinus*) is noted for favoring behaviors such as probing crevices in specific trees like live oaks. In contrast, Flickers belonging to the *Colaptes* genus have evolved to spend significantly more time foraging on the ground, specifically targeting insects like ants. This distinct behavioral adaptation, tied to subtle differences in bill shape and tongue structure, is significant enough to warrant their separation into different genera within the broader woodpecker family structure.