The nuthatch is a plump bird about the size of a great tit that resembles a small woodpecker. It is blue-grey above and whitish below, with chestnut on its sides and under its tail. It has a black stripe on its head, a long black pointed bill, and short legs. It breeds in central and southern England and in Wales, and is resident, with birds seldom travelling far from the woods where they hatch.
Key ID Features:
A distinctive neckless shape with big head and long pointed bill.
Blue grey upperparts contrast with buff underparts, richer in male.
Distinct narrow black eye stripe extends from base of bill to shoulder and sits over white cheeks.
Distinctive feeding pattern on established deciduous trees often seen climbing down trunks and branches head first whilst foraging.
Overview
Scientific name: Sitta europaea.
Family: Nuthatches (Sittidae)
Where to see them:
Best looked for in mature woods and established parkland in central and southern England and Wales, on the sides of tree trunks and underside of branches. Occasional sightings in Scotland.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Insects, hazel nuts, acorns, beechmast and other nuts and seed.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Photographer: Tim Tapley
