White-tailed Nuthatch

The White-tailed Nuthatch, Sitta himalayensis, is a charming avian species belonging to the Sittidae family. One can distinguish this bird by its buff underside and the rufous-orange underparts. The upper tail coverts exhibit a subtle white, which may be elusive to the observer's eye in the wild. This bird is further characterized by a small bill and bright rufous undertail-coverts that are unmarked, setting it apart from its relatives.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the White-tailed Nuthatch, look for its smaller beak compared to that of the Kashmir Nuthatch (S. cashmirensis). The bird's rufous-orange underparts are distinctive, and the white on the upper tail coverts, though challenging to spot, is a key feature.

Habitat

The White-tailed Nuthatch is found in subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as subtropical or tropical moist montane forests. These habitats provide the ideal environment for the species to thrive.

Distribution

This nuthatch has a range that spans across the northern and northeastern parts of the Indian Subcontinent. It is predominantly seen in the low-to-middle Himalayas and associated mountain ranges, with its presence recorded in Bhutan, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Tibet, and Thailand.

Behaviour

The White-tailed Nuthatch is a resident bird within the sub-Himalayan range, from Himachal Pradesh to Arunachal Pradesh, extending into the South Assam Hills, also known as the Lushai Hills. It is known to breed from March to May, during which time it prefers broad-leaved and mixed forests for nesting and rearing its young.

Breeding

Breeding season for the White-tailed Nuthatch occurs from March to May. During this period, the birds engage in nesting activities within the broad-leaved and mixed forests of their range.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List has classified the White-tailed Nuthatch as Least Concern, indicating that, currently, there are no immediate threats to the population levels of this species that would warrant a higher level of concern.