See Also: nuthatch(medicine)
nuthatch(dictionary)
nuthatch(encyclopedia)

nuthatch (sh)




Any of about 22 species (genus Sitta, family Sittidae) of songbirds that are 4-7.

5 in. (9.5-19 cm) long and have a short, square tail, short neck, and thin, pointed bill. Most are forest dwellers; some live in rocky areas. Nuthatches search tree trunks and rocks for insects, often descending headfirst. They also eat seeds, which they may store for winter. The nest is a grass-or hair-lined cavity. Nuthatches are most common from Eurasia to Japan and southward; four species occur in North America. Most are bluish above and white or reddish below; there may be a black eye stripe or a cap.


European nuthatch (Sitta europaea)

Bruce Coleman Ltd.