Sittidae

Nuthatches (genus Sitta) are small passerine birds in the family Sittidae, characterized by large heads, short tails, and strong bills. They have grey or bluish upper parts and a black eye stripe, and communicate with loud songs. Most species breed in temperate woodlands of the Northern Hemisphere, with Southern Asia hosting the greatest diversity.

These omnivorous birds feed on insects, nuts, and seeds, often foraging upside-down. They are known for wedging food in crevices and using their strong bills to extract it. Nuthatches are year-round residents in North America, Europe, and Asia, except for the migratory North American red-breasted nuthatch.

Nuthatches prefer coniferous forests and build nests in tree cavities using various materials for protection against predators. They are monogamous and both parents may share incubation responsibilities. Chicks fledge in 21 to 27 days, and their average lifespan ranges from 2 to 3.5 years, with some living up to 10.

During cold weather, nuthatches roost communally to conserve heat. They forage on tree trunks, storing food in crevices for future use. Their ability to remember the locations of these caches helps them survive, especially in tough conditions.