ODNR Division of Wildlife - A to Z Species Guide - White-breasted Nuthatch

White-breasted Nuthatch

white-breasted nuthatch

Although the call of the white-breasted nuthatch is distinctive, be mindful of the red-breasted nuthatches, which are primarily winter visitors. Their calls are similar, but faster and higher pitched.

Listen

White-breasted Nuthatch

Sitta carolinensis

At-a-Glance

• Peak Breeding Activity: May-June

• Incubation: 12-14 days

• Clutch Size: 3-10 eggs

• Young Fledge: 26 days after hatching

• Typical Foods: insects, nuts and seeds

Description
This sparrow-sized bird is blue-gray on top and white underneath, with a solid black cap. The short, stubby tail has a white stripe through it. This "upside down" bird is easily identified as it creeps headfirst down a tree trunk.

Habitat and Habits
The nuthatch inhabits all manner of woodlands; even parks and neighborhoods with plenty of trees. The song is a nasal yank, yank.

Reproduction and Care of the Young
The nest is in a natural tree cavity (possibly excavated by the nuthatch itself) or a nesting box and contains five to six lightly speckled white eggs.