  The Nuthatch is one of the tree trunk birds that, in the wintertime, is a close friend of the Chickadees and the Downy Woodpeckers. He is with us all the year around. Some people have called him the “Upside down bird” due to the fact that he is able to run up and down the trunks of trees in almost every conceivable position. Food: The food of the Nuthatch consists of the small insects that live under and upon the bark of trees. The small, sharp pointed beak is well adapted to pry off sections of loose bark that may house some eggs, larvae or pupae of insects that are hidden for the cold months. Habits: Edith M. Thomas has written a little poem about the Nuthatch. It is a good description of the acrobatic powers of these little gray birds of the woods. “Shrewd little haunter of woods all gray, Whom I met on my walk of a winter day— You’re busy inspecting each cranny and hole In the ragged bark of a hickory bole; You intent on your task, and I on the law Of your wonderful head and gymnastic claw!” “The Woodpecker may well despair of this feat— Only the fly with you can compete! So much is clear; but I fain would know How you can so reckless and fearless go, Head upward, head downward, all one to you, Zenith and nadir, the same in your view.” Nest: The nest of the Nuthatch is located in a hole in a tree or stump. It is lined with feathers, leaves and other similar materials. The white eggs are thickly speckled with a rufous and lavender color. From five to eight eggs are laid. Song: Some one has described the song of this bird as being like the laugh of a very old man. As the Nuthatch pauses from his work to inspect you, he may suddenly decide that you are no longer worthy of his attention. With a harsh little “yank-yank,” he will then continue his insect hunting and leave you to marvel at his actions. The White-breasted Nuthatch—6 inches |
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