Treecreepers

Treecreepers, small birds from the Certhiidae family, are mainly found in wooded areas across the Northern Hemisphere and sub-Saharan Africa. They have dull-colored feathers and are known for their tree-climbing behavior, spiraling up tree trunks to find food, primarily insects and spiders. The family includes eleven species split into two genera, Certhia and Salpornis. Certhia, with nine species, includes the widespread Eurasian and American varieties, while Salpornis consists of the Indian and African spotted creepers. Treecreepers are typically monogamous, using tree crevices or branch forks to nest, with some communal roosting seen in colder climates. They have distinctive long, down-curved bills, and their tails differ, with the Certhia’s being longer and stiffened for support while climbing. Notably, they have a mixed diet which includes seeds and fruit during scarce periods. These birds are usually seen alone or in pairs, and despite their elusive nature, some will visit bird feeders and join mixed-species flocks.