Nuthatch

The Nuthatch Sitta europaea is a small, agile bird belonging to the family Sittidae. It is easily recognized by its striking plumage: a blue-grey back, buff-orange underparts, and a bold black eye stripe. Both sexes look similar, although males tend to have slightly richer colouring. The BTO code for the Nuthatch is NH.

Nuthatch on a branch in a local woodland

Nuthatches are typically found in mature deciduous or mixed woodlands, parks, and gardens, particularly those with large, old trees. They are the only UK bird species capable of climbing both up and down tree trunks, often seen spiralling along branches as they search for food. Their diet consists of insects, seeds, and nuts, with acorns and hazelnuts being particularly favoured in autumn and winter. Nuthatches often wedge nuts into crevices and hammer them open with their beaks.

Nuthatch feeding on food left out by a member of the public in a local park

Nuthatches breed from April to June. They nest in tree cavities, such as old woodpecker holes, but will also use nest boxes. Uniquely, they plaster mud around the entrance hole to reduce its size and deter predators or competitors. Clutches typically consist of 6-9 white eggs with reddish spots. The female incubates the eggs for 14-16 days, while the male provides food. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge after 21-25 days. The UK population of Nuthatches is estimated to be around 220,000 breeding territories, and their range has been expanding northwards in recent decades. While they are widespread in England and Wales, they remain less common in Scotland. The species has benefited from the increase in woodland cover and the provision of bird feeders.

Nuthatch in the sun in a local woodland

The Nuthatch is listed as Green on the Birds of Conservation Concern (BoCC) 5, reflecting its stable population and expanding range. It is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, making it illegal to harm or damage their nests/eggs. The main threats to Nuthatches include the loss of mature woodland, reduction in nesting sites, and harsh winters, which can deplete food supplies.

Conservation efforts for Nuthatches focus on protecting and managing woodland habitats, maintaining old trees with natural cavities, and providing nest boxes where suitable sites are lacking. Ensuring a year-round supply of food through habitat management and supplementary feeding in gardens supports their populations. Protecting mature woodlands and increasing public awareness of their needs helps safeguard this charismatic woodland bird and the ecosystems they inhabit.