Nuthatches' amusing antics

How many of us find the nuthatch almost irresistible? It is quite an amazing bird to watch as it comes down a tree or hangs upside down while pecking at a nut in a peanut feeder.
All nuthatches have gray-blue backs with very short tails. The largest is the White-breasted Nuthatch (about 6 inches long) which we seen in our area. It also is found throughout the country except some portions of the Southwest and the Plains.

White-breasted Nuthatch on a peanut feeder

The Red-breasted Nuthatch (4.5 inches long) is also seen in our area, sometimes as a migrant or sometimes lingering all year.
In nature, these birds feed mostly on insects, eggs and larvae found in the crevices of tree bark. Their bodies are just right to do the job. They move up and down clinging closely to the tree, usually head down and tail up.

Watch how these birds feed, and you'll note the differences with the other "clingers." For instance the chickadee holds a seed in its feet and pecks at it. Nuthatches wedge the seed into a crevice and pecks it off in pieces.

If threatened, nuthatches can use their beaks in self-defense. Also, watch for signs of aggression with lowered or spread wings.

They enjoy sunflower seeds but are tempted by peanut butter, suet and peanuts. Feeders designed for each of these foods are available at The Bird House.

Red-breasted Nuthatch on a tree

The White-breasted Nuthatch makes its nest from twigs and bark, and may use a birdhouse that is the same size as those used by chickadees. 

The Red-breasted Nuthatch uses rootlets, grass and moss for its nests, and may also nest in a birdhouse.