White-breasted Nuthatch
Common Name:
White-breasted Nuthatch
Class: Aves
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Sittidae
Genus: Sitta
Species: Sitta carolinensis
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photo Ivan Andrijevic |
Taxonomy/Description
Of the
two species of the Nuthatch family, Sittidae, found in
Western New York, the Red-breasted Nuthatch and the
White-breasted Nuthatch, the White-breasted is
distinguished from the Red-breasted by its larger size,
black crown, and bright white face and under parts.
Although the White-breasted also has some rusty markings
underneath it, the red is much more apparent in the
Red-breasted.
photo Ivan Andrijevic
Habitat/Diet
The White-breasted nuthatch is a year-round resident of
generally mature deciduous woodland, but also mixed
deciduous and coniferous forest; occasionally in
residential areas. They favor woodland edges over more
central locations, preferring open areas (water, roads,
clearings, fields) near the nest.
Its diet consists of a variety of insects that collects
from tree bark as well as seeds and nuts. During fall
and winter, individuals regularly scatter hoard food;
they disperse stores throughout their territory, using
each storage site only once.
Behavior/Reproduction
The White-breasted Nuthatch
will cling to the sides of trees, often climbing downward head first,
foraging for insects inside the bark. While foraging, they often chip away
bark with beak to reveal food hidden in crevices. When individuals find a
food item they often wedge it into a bark crevice and hammer with the bill
to open or tear it apart.
White-breasted Nuthatches form monogamous pairs but it is the female only
that constructs the nest. The nests are made in cavities within the trees,
sometimes using old woodpecker holes. It is lined with fur, grasses, and
pieces of bark.
Where to see them in WNY
White-breasted Nuthatches
are year-round residents and are widespread throughout most of Western New
York. They can be found in many local parks and cemeteries as well as
Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge.