Over the last few weeks, the White-Breasted Nuthatches have returned to their favorite feeders on my deck. I didn't see them all summer, but I heard their nasal 'yank' call, and immediately after they appeared at my squirrel proof peanut feeder, sunflower and suet feeders.
White-Breasted Nuthatches are friendly little grey, black and white birds with a touch of a rust color under their wings. The male's head is shiny, whereas the females are slightly paler. You will see them on tree trunks climbing upside down, right side up, and horizontally. They have an extra long hind claw that enables them to do this.
I was hand feeding the Nuthatches at a local birding spot in Durham last week. It was very interesting watching them come and take peanuts and sunflower hearts and wedge them into furrows on the bark of the trees, then hurry back for the next one.
Photo Credits - Jane Paradis
It's very easy to attract these little birds to your backyard. Set up some feeders to accommodate peanuts, sunflower, and suet and you'll be able to enjoy them up close and personal!
@Urban Nature Store we have the different variety of feeders, seeds, jewelry, outdoor equipment and holiday gifts for all nature lovers and for all ages.
Bird of the week– White Breasted Nuthatch – check out our new nuthatch earrings.
Author - Jane Paradis
Editor - Daniel Oommen
