The Brown-headed Nuthatch is a small, active songbird of the southeastern United States, characterized by its distinctive brown cap and short tail. It is known for its peculiar habit of using bark flakes as tools to pry open other bark crevices. These birds are strongly associated with pine forests.
Where to spot
Endemic to the southeastern United States, primarily along the coastal plain and Gulf Coast. It is strongly associated with mature pine forests, especially Longleaf and Loblolly Pine woodlands.
How to spot
Look for its characteristic climbing on pine trunks and branches, often moving quickly. Listen for its unique, high-pitched calls. The brown cap is its most distinguishing feature, and sometimes you can spot them using their bark tool.
When to spot
Resident year-round throughout its range. They are active throughout the day. Listen for their distinctive calls, which are often described as 'squeaky toy' sounds, especially in the breeding season.
Where to spot
Endemic to the southeastern United States, primarily along the coastal plain and Gulf Coast. It is strongly associated with mature pine forests, especially Longleaf and Loblolly Pine woodlands.
How to spot
Look for its characteristic climbing on pine trunks and branches, often moving quickly. Listen for its unique, high-pitched calls. The brown cap is its most distinguishing feature, and sometimes you can spot them using their bark tool.
When to spot
Resident year-round throughout its range. They are active throughout the day. Listen for their distinctive calls, which are often described as 'squeaky toy' sounds, especially in the breeding season.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Brown-headed Nuthatches are one of the few bird species known to use tools; they will often carry a small piece of bark in their bill, using it to pry open other bark scales to find insects.
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