White-Breasted Nuthatch

Have you seen the white-breasted nuthatch crawling down a tree? There's a good reason for this. Learn how to attract the white-breasted nuthatch to your yard, and listen to its song.

Photo: Roland Jordahl

• Scientific Name: Sitta carolinensis.
• Family: Nuthatch.
• Length: 5-3/4 inches.
• Wingspan: 11 inches.
• Distinctive Markings: Males and females look similar, with a short tail, bluish-gray back and wings, black cap and white breast.
• Nest: Hair, fur and shredded bark built in natural cavities and birdhouses. Lays five to 10 white eggs with multicolored markings.
• Song: Nasal "yank-yank-yank" call.
• Habitat: Area with plentiful trees.
• Diet: Insects and larvae; pine, fir and maple seeds; mountain ash and juniper berries; oak, beech and hickory nuts.
• Backyard Favorites: Sunflower seeds, unsalted peanuts, birdseed mix and suet.