The Nuthatches of Ontario

     I am quite confident in my judgement when I say that nuthatches (Family Sittidae), small birds with a remarkable ability to scurry down a tree head first, elicit both appreciation and admiration, from ornithologist and layman alike. They are superbly adapted for an arboreal lifestyle and derive everything they need, from shelter to food, to a place to raise a family from the trees they inhabit. 

     In Ontario we are fortunate to have two species, both quite common, each one enchanting in its own way.

White-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta carolinensis)

     White-breasted Nuthatch seldom fails to put in an appearance on our walks through suitable habitat, often announcing its presence by its high-pitched nasal call. It is not shy, and will come to humans for food, often in the company of Black-capped Chickadees (Poecile atricapillus). Chickadees seem to be hard-wired to exploit humans for food, and White-breasted Nuthatches appear to have learned the technique. 

     They are not quite as brash as chickadees, but once they have gained confidence they tend to stay at the hand longer, always making sure to get the choice bits of seed.

     Similarly, they do not hesitate to take full advantage of well-stocked bird feeders, feasting on sunflower seeds, peanuts and suet.

     As you may see, it is a handsome bird, with a black cap, a white face, blue/grey upperparts and rich buffy flanks. Its strong bill enables it to chisel under bark for spider eggs and insect larvae, and to penetrate seed shells to get to the succulent interior. 

     It is indeed a pleasure to share my world with  White-breasted Nuthatches.

Red-breasted Nuthatch (Sitta canadensis)

     Red-breasted Nuthatch is noticeably smaller than a White-breasted Nuthatch, but shares similar habitat and feeding strategies.

     It is at home here all winter, even in the northern part of the province. 

     The picture above was taken on a cold March day in Algonquin Provincial Park, on a conifer covered in lichen.

     It is a confiding little bird and once it becomes accustomed to your presence is not reticent about feeding from the hand.

     Red-breasted Nuthatches nest in cavities and regularly smear the entrance to the hole with the sticky resin from Balsam Fir (Abies balsamea) as a predator deterrent. The bird avoids this hazard by flying directly into the hole, although occasionally individuals have been found stuck, either miscalculating or perhaps encountering strong cross winds at the last moment.

     Nests are constructed of bark, grass, rootlets etc and lined with hair, fur or feathers.

     Generally, five to six white eggs are laid.

     A walk through snowy woods is always enhanced by the company of a friendly nuthatch.

     Red-breasted Nuthatches have no hesitation in exploiting backyard bird feeders, and once they find yours, have the delightful habit of returning often.

     Frequently they will eat a couple of seeds on the spot and then fly off to cache others, returning to the feeder within minutes to repeat the process.

     I consider myself very fortunate to have both species visiting my feeders on a regular basis, and when I go out to top up the feeders they remain at arm's length. They never cease to bring great joy to my life.