While the Redwoods Rising apprentice program is usually about young people learning from our restoration experts, we end up learning a lot from them, too. Take Francisco Saavedra—a two-time apprentice who shared his method for finding good luck in tough moments. (Who couldn’t use that these days?) As Francisco told us:
"I keep something special inside my hard hat: a feather from a northern flicker—or pegoy in Yurok. The northern flicker is native to Northern California and can often be spotted drumming on trees or calling out through the forest.
In Yurok tradition, the flicker is more than just a bird, it’s a symbol of good luck and medicine. Carrying this feather with me is a way to stay connected to that meaning, especially while working deep in the woods. The feather is a silent source of strength, protection, and presence during long days in the field.
And hey … have you ever seen a flicker bird get hit by a falling log? I didn’t think so. That’s why I keep one in my hard hat. It works every time."
