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There are two types of Nuthatches found in the Algonquin Highlands, the Red-Breasted Nuthatch, found in coniferous forests, and the White-Breasted Nuthatch, found in hardwood forests. Insect eaters, the Nuthatch is comfortable in any position, often found descending trees head first, looking for insect eggs.
The Red-Breasted Nuthatch is smaller than a sparrow. Males have a rust-coloured underside, a black crown and stripe through the eye, and a white stripe between the two. Females are similar, with a grey crown.
Both species are hole-nesting birds. They build a nest of twigs and grass, lined with softer material, placing it in a tree cavity. This gives protection from the elements, as well as decreases accidental falls and predators. As well as concealing the nest, the Red-Breasted Nuthatch covers the outside of the entrance with sticky pitch, while the White-Breasted Nuthatch uses crushed insects. This is used to discourage or trap predators. The Red-Breasted Nuthatch has adapted to flying directly into the nest hole, avoiding the sides. They will lay 5 or 6 white eggs, spotted with red-brown.
In addition to insects, the Nuthatch also consumes seeds, which they will harvest in great numbers, transporting them to larders for storage when excess is available. The Nuthatch produces a tinny yank-yank sound, more high pitched and nasal from the Red-Breasted Nuthatch.
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RED-BREASTED NUTHATCH
Sitta canadensis
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