The Nuthatches!

White-breasted Nuthatch

Meet the "Upside-down" birds. These two small nuthatches are often seen crawling up, but also down a tree trunk as they search for insects and larvae in the bark of a tree. They also eat seeds and can be seen at the bird feeder. They grab a seed, fly off and then use their bill to crack open or "hatch" the seed. That's how they got their name!

The White-breasted Nuthatch as shown above is a bit larger 5" and is in southeastern South Dakota year-round. The Red-breasted Nuthatch is smaller at 4"- {below} is seen during some winters and occasionally during other seasons, but it is not as common. Notice their long, pointed bills and similar shapes. I see the White-breasted Nuthatches nearly every day. If I'm lucky I will see a Red-breasted Nuthatch too.

Red-breasted Nuthatch

VIDEOS

Species Spotlight: The White-breasted Nuthatch

The Red-breasted Nuthatch: Adorable, Fun and Vocal

Cutest Nuthatch There Ever Was - Lentil: The Red-breasted Nuthatch Fun Facts