Eastern Rock Nuthatch

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The Eastern Rock Nuthatch is a unique nuthatch species that, like its western counterpart, primarily inhabits rocky habitats. It is characterized by its long bill, blue-grey upperparts, and rufous underparts, often with a darker throat. It also builds distinctive mud nests on rock faces.

Where to spot

Found in Central Asia, including parts of Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and western China. It exclusively inhabits rocky, mountainous areas, gorges, and barren slopes, typically avoiding forests.

How to spot

Scan vertical rock faces and cliffs in appropriate mountainous regions. Listen for its loud, clear, and far-carrying calls, which are similar to, but distinct from, the Western Rock Nuthatch. Look for its unique mud nests on rock surfaces.

When to spot

Resident year-round throughout its range. It is active all day, but especially visible during the breeding season when pairs are conspicuous around their nests.

Where to spot

Found in Central Asia, including parts of Iran, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and western China. It exclusively inhabits rocky, mountainous areas, gorges, and barren slopes, typically avoiding forests.

How to spot

When to spot

Resident year-round throughout its range. It is active all day, but especially visible during the breeding season when pairs are conspicuous around their nests.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The Eastern Rock Nuthatch is often considered a close relative, or even conspecific, with the Western Rock Nuthatch, but subtle differences in vocalizations and plumage patterns warrant their distinction as separate species.

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