White-breasted Nuthatch
Least ConcernSitta carolinensis
Visual Identification
Appearance
The White-breasted Nuthatch is a compact bird with a large head, short tail, and distinctively large, slightly upturned bill. Its upperparts are blue-gray, contrasting with a white face and underparts.
Males have a black cap and nape, while females typically show a darker gray cap (though some southeastern females can appear nearly black). The sides and undertail show rusty coloring.
Juveniles resemble adults but show paler coloring and less defined markings.
Size
Length
13cm to 14cm
Wingspan
20cm to 27cm
Weight
18g to 30g
Colours
Males and females have similar plumage
Primary Colour
Blue White
Secondary Colour
Black Grey
Beak Colour
Black
Leg Colour
Grey
Habitat and Distribution
Habitats
Woodland
Garden
Wetland
Coastal
Urban
Farmland
Grassland
Desert
Tundra
Rainforest
Mountain
Savanna
Distribution
White-breasted Nuthatches inhabit deciduous and mixed forests across North America, from southern Canada to central Mexico. They are particularly fond of oak and maple woodlands but also thrive in pine forests at higher elevations.
In the United States, they are year-round residents in most areas, including suburban neighborhoods with mature trees. Their range extends into southern Canada, where they are common in the southern parts of provinces from British Columbia to Nova Scotia.
Elevation Range
Sea level to 3,600 meters
Climate zones
Temperate, Subtropical
Distribution Map
This map gives you a rough idea of where you might spot a White-breasted Nuthatch. The coloured areas show countries where these birds have been seen.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Birds might not be everywhere in the coloured areas, for example, they may be present around the coast of that country
- Where birds live can change with seasons and available food
- This map is quite simple - it doesn't show exact locations
We're working on making our maps even better! Soon, we hope to show you:
- More detailed maps for bigger countries, including state and region
- How birds move around during different seasons
Distribution by Region
Behaviour and Ecology
Bird Attributes
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Share your thoughtsBird Attributes Explained
Our bird attributes system rates various aspects of a bird's capabilities on a scale of 0-100, based on data from field observations, scientific studies, and expert knowledge.
Attribute Categories:
- Agility: Manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
- Strength: Physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
- Adaptability: Ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
- Aggressiveness: Territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
- Endurance: Stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
Understanding the Ratings:
- 0-20: Very Low
- 21-40: Low
- 41-60: Average
- 61-80: High
- 81-100: Very High
Remember, these attributes are relative to other bird species and don't necessarily indicate superiority.
Hover over the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Tap the icon next to each attribute for more information.
Agility
Reflects the bird's manoeuvrability, speed, and grace in flight or movement.
Exceptional agility demonstrated by unique ability to move headfirst down tree trunks and walk upside down on branches. Their compact body and short tail enable remarkable manoeuvrability whilst spiralling around trees in all directions.
Strength
Indicates the bird's physical power, often correlating with size and hunting abilities.
Robust strength for their size, particularly evident in their powerful bill used for hammering open seeds and nuts. Capable of breaking through tough bark and carrying relatively large food items to cache in tree crevices.
Adaptability
Represents the bird's ability to thrive in various environments or changing conditions.
Highly adaptable species thriving across varied elevations (sea level to 3,600m) and different forest types. Successfully adapted to suburban environments and demonstrates clever food-caching behaviour for winter survival.
Aggressiveness
Measures the bird's territorial behaviour and assertiveness, particularly during breeding seasons.
Moderately aggressive in defending territory and nest sites, particularly during breeding season. Whilst generally peaceful, they actively protect their resources and will challenge intruders, including larger birds.
Endurance
Reflects the bird's stamina, often seen in migration patterns or foraging behaviours.
Good endurance demonstrated through constant foraging activity and ability to maintain territories year-round in varied climates. Their resident status in most areas indicates solid stamina for surviving challenging weather conditions.
Diet
White-breasted Nuthatches primarily feed on insects, spiders, and other arthropods found in tree bark. They supplement their diet with seeds and nuts, especially in winter.
These birds often wedge large seeds into bark crevices and hammer them open with their strong bills.
Behaviour
White-breasted Nuthatches are known for their ability to move headfirst down tree trunks, a unique behavior among North American birds. They are often seen spiraling around tree trunks and branches, probing bark crevices for insects.
These birds are typically solitary or found in pairs, and they may join mixed-species flocks in winter.
Vocalisation
The White-breasted Nuthatch's most common call is a nasal 'yank-yank' or 'ank-ank', often repeated in series.
During the breeding season, males produce a rapid, whistled 'whi-whi-whi' song. They also use softer, conversational notes like 'hit' or 'tut' when foraging or interacting with mates.
Nesting & Breeding
White-breasted Nuthatches form monogamous pairs and begin breeding in late winter or early spring. Males court females by bowing, spreading their tails, and offering food.
Nests are typically built in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes lined with fur, bark strips, and grass. Females lay 5-9 white eggs with reddish-brown speckles.
Incubation lasts about 12 days, primarily done by the female. Both parents feed the nestlings, which fledge after 18-26 days. Families often stay together for several weeks after fledging.
Lifespan
The White-breasted Nuthatch typically lives for 2 years, with a maximum recorded lifespan of 9.8 years.
Like all birds, lifespan can be affected by factors including predation, habitat quality, disease, and access to food sources.
Conservation and Status
Global Conservation Status
While the White-breasted Nuthatch is currently listed as Least Concern, it faces threats from habitat loss due to deforestation and urban development.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving mature deciduous forests and promoting the retention of dead trees for nesting sites.
Birdwatching Tips
- Look for them on large deciduous trees in woodlands or parks
- Listen for their distinctive 'yank-yank' call
- Observe their characteristic headfirst descent on tree trunks
- Set up suet or sunflower seed feeders to attract them in winter
Additional Information
Quick Facts
Other names:
White-breasted Wood-nuthatch
Family:
SittidaePredators
Main predators include hawks, owls, and domestic cats. Squirrels and woodpeckers may prey on eggs and nestlings.
Did You Know?
- White-breasted Nuthatches can walk upside down on tree branches.
- They store food in bark crevices for later consumption.
- These birds often use mud to narrow the entrance of their nest cavities.
Community Experience
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References
- 2
website: BirdLife International. 2016. Sitta carolinensis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016: e.T22711202A94283783.
View source - 1 4
report, 2007: Data from Breeding Bird Survey and/or Christmas Bird Count: Butcher and Niven
- 3
website, 2022: Partners in Flight
View source
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