Kashmir Nutcracker

The Kashmir nutcracker, or large-spotted nutcracker (Nucifraga multipunctata), is a passerine bird of the family Corvidae. This distinctive corvid is characterized by its heavily streaked and spotted plumage, with a more whitish general appearance from a distance. Males and females differ slightly in size, with males being marginally heavier.

Identification Tips

Adults typically measure 32–35 cm in length, with a wing length of 195–212 mm. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism in weight, with females weighing between 155–173 g and males between 165–177 g. The Kashmir nutcracker can be identified by its blackish crown and nape, blackish gray-brown body with heavy white streaking, spotting, and striping. The wings are glossy black with white tips on the coverts and secondaries, while the tail mirrors this pattern. The bill is slim, conical, pointed, and black.

Habitat

The Kashmir nutcracker is found in coniferous and mixed conifer and oak forests, particularly those composed of blue pine, Pinus gerardiana, and Morinda spruce. It resides at altitudes ranging from 1,000 to 4,000 meters, though it predominantly occupies the 2,000–3,000-meter range on alpine slopes.

Distribution

This bird's range spans eastern Afghanistan, north and western Pakistan, Kashmir, and northwestern India, with a possible extension into the southwestern Tibet Autonomous region in China.

Behaviour

The Kashmir nutcracker is known to descend to lower altitudes in late summer to collect nuts for winter stores and is often attracted to human habitation.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Kashmir nutcracker is similar to that of the Eurasian nutcracker, with a common call being a loud, harsh nasal 'kraa'. Other calls include 'reek' and 'reer', with the former being less nasal and the latter more so. The species also produces a whisper song composed of harsh, high-pitched notes mixed with click-gulping nasal sounds.

Breeding

The breeding season is believed to occur from May to July, with egg-laying likely earlier in February to March. The Kashmir nutcracker is a solitary nester with a single brood per season. Nests are built against tree trunks, high in dense conifers, and are made of twigs, lichens, soft roots, and pine needles. Clutches typically consist of 3–4 pale blue eggs with dense brown markings.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Kashmir nutcracker mirrors that of its Eurasian counterpart, feeding primarily on conifer seeds, acorns, walnuts, and hazelnuts, which are often stored for winter.

Conservation status

The Kashmir nutcracker is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. Observations near human settlements suggest some adaptability to human presence, but further research is needed to determine the species' tolerance to habitat disturbance.