White-breasted nuthatch a rare visitor to back yards.
January 21, 2001

A nasal "ank" announced a white breasted nuthatch hatching head-first down a nearby tree. These droll little birds are welcome visitors to backyard feeders, ranging from daily to in frequent.

Although they may visit feeders, white-breasted nuthatches prefer mature hardwood woodlands containing a mixture of deciduous and coniferous trees. They nest throughout most of the United States and are year-round residents where they have set up a territory, which may contain anywhere from 25 to 45 acres. This acreage may be increased during winter months. Backyard birders are are fortunate to see them at all.

Described as a chunky, wedge-shaped bird with a square tail and a slightly upturned bill and strong clasping feet, it's back is a bluish slate and the breast is white. A dark cap contrasts with its white face...easily recognized.

Those fortunate enough to have frequent feeder encounters with these little birds may get to observe the activities that have labeled them "clowns", such as arranging materials at the feeder to suit their fussy tastes. If a squirrel, chipmunk or another bird should be in charge of a feeder, nuthatches will try to scare them off by raising both wings above the back and then swaying back and forth. It is called the "pendulum act" by observers.

The name "nuthatch" is said to be derived from the habit of stashing seeds and nuts into some convenient crevice and hammering at them until they are pounded apart. Winter foods that can be offered are sunflower seeds, suet and nutmeats.

Natural foods consist of insects and insect eggs which are gleaned (heading upside down) from under the bark of trees and large branches. Working "upside-down" these birds find what other species didn't find on the way up the tree.

As nuthatches are often heard before they are seen, observers have noted the meaning of their calls. One "ank" is a contact note between a pair. A two "ank" indicates a minor annoyance such as a squirrel or human observers. A long, rapid series means a lot of nuthatch excitement... perhaps a predator, or the intrusion of another pair. Their "song" is a series of low whistled notes at one pitch. Those with keen ears may hear the sound of their feet as they head down a tree. It is said to resemble the noise made by two Velcro strips being torn apart.

Nuthatch pairs remain together throughout the year. Preferred nest sites are round knotholes in old trees or unused woodpecker holes. A common ingredient in the nest is rabbit fur taken from dead animals...which might end up being somewhat "smelly". There may be as many as ten eggs laid, with the ensuing young to care for. If they survive, youngsters may also visit feeders.

The smaller red-breasted nuthataches, prefer conifer forests, and occasionally visit feeders. But that's another story.