Eurasian Nuthatch

The Eurasian nuthatch, Sitta europaea, is a small, robust passerine bird characterized by its blue-gray upperparts and distinctive black eye-stripe. The underparts vary geographically, with birds in the west sporting orange-buff plumage and a white throat, while those in Russia exhibit whitish underparts. Eastern birds resemble their European counterparts but lack the white throat. This species is known for its loud and repetitive dwip call.

Identification Tips

Adult males typically measure 14 cm in length with a wingspan of 22.5–27 cm and weigh between 17–28 g. They possess a stout, dark grey bill with a paler base on the lower mandible, dark brown irises, and pale brown or greyish legs and feet. Females are similar but may have slightly paler upperparts and a browner eyestripe. Juveniles resemble females but with duller plumage and paler legs.

Habitat

The Eurasian nuthatch favors mature deciduous or mixed woodlands with large, old trees, especially oak. It can also be found in parks, old orchards, and other wooded areas with a minimum of 1 ha of suitable trees. In mountainous regions, it may inhabit old spruce and pine forests.

Distribution

This species is widespread across temperate Eurasia, from Great Britain to Japan, and is typically found between the 16–20°C July isotherms. It is sedentary, with some populations making limited movements depending on food availability.

Behaviour

Pairs of Eurasian nuthatches maintain permanent territories and exhibit lifelong pairing, although genetic studies indicate some level of extra-pair mating. They are known for their agility in foraging, often descending trees head first and removing bark or rotten wood to reach insects.

Song & Calls

The Eurasian nuthatch is vocal, with a sharp dwip call and a shrill sirrrr alarm call. Its song is a slow, whistled pee-pee-pee with various renditions. The song of the S. e. arctica subspecies is notably different, although further research is needed.

Breeding

Nesting occurs in tree cavities, often old woodpecker holes, which may be plastered with mud to reduce the entrance size. Clutches typically consist of 6–9 red-speckled white eggs, with the female incubating and both parents feeding the chicks.

Similar Species

The Eurasian nuthatch can be distinguished from other nuthatches by its size, coloration, and habitat preferences. It is the only nuthatch in much of its range, but where ranges overlap, differences in size, plumage, and habitat can aid identification.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of insects like caterpillars and beetles, supplemented with nuts and seeds in autumn and winter. The species is an adept hoarder, storing food year-round for consumption during scarce periods.

Conservation Status

The Eurasian nuthatch is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a large population and extensive breeding area. However, habitat fragmentation can lead to local declines, and the species's range is still expanding in some areas.