Colaptes auratus, commonly known as the Northern Flicker, is native to North America. Its geographical distribution spans across a wide range, covering much of Canada, the United States, parts of Mexico, and extending into Central America. The Northern Flicker is known for its adaptability, resulting in a broad range throughout its territory.

Northern Flickers are typically found in open woodlands, forest edges, and less dense forests, including mixed forests and deciduous stands. They also inhabit open fields, wetlands, and urban areas like parks and gardens. The species prefers areas with ample supply of tree trunks for nesting.

The Northern Flicker occupies a unique ecological niche as a ground forager, which is atypical for woodpeckers. It primarily feeds on ants and beetles and can be found flicking through leaf litter in search of these insects. This species plays an important role in controlling insect populations and is also known to utilize its strong beak for excavating nest cavities in trees.