Sitta Carolinensis
This is a new bird for me. I'm more familiar with the Red-breasted Nuthatch, and I was greatly surprised when two White-breasted Nuthatches arrived at the bird feeders several days ago. They were perched in the poplars nearby. I've seen one or the other every day since then.
- larger than the Red-breasted Nuthatch (White-breasted Nuthatch - 15cm, Red-breasted Nuthatch - 11cm)
- conservation - "Too much pruning or felling of dead wood can reduce the nesting opportunities for this species." (source: All About Birds)
- White-breasted Nuthatches are very territorial and will drive out any other nuthatches. (It would be most unfortunate should this occur as the Red-breasted Nuthatches have inhabited these woods for many years. We will have to wait and see what happens.)
November 4, 2012 - The White-breasted Nuthatch is still coming to the feeders and usually makes his presence known by calling out before descending for a sunflower seed. I have seen nothing of the Red-breasted Nuthatch since the arrival of the bigger bird.
