Nuthatch

The Eurasian Nuthatch is a small bird that lives in woodland areas. It has blue-grey feathers on its back and a peachy-buff colour on its underside. A black stripe runs across its eye, making it easy to recognise. Unlike treecreepers, it can climb down tree trunks headfirst with impressive skill, using its strong feet and short tail for support. Its long, pointed beak is perfect for wedging nuts and seeds into the cracks of tree bark to hammer them open, which is how it got its name. This bird lives all year round in mature deciduous and mixed woodlands across England and Wales, especially where oak and beech trees grow. It is not found in Scotland or Ireland. You can hear its loud, clear calls and trilling song echoing through the trees. The Eurasian Nuthatch often visits garden feeders in wooded areas. Its bold and acrobatic behaviour makes it easy to spot among other small birds like tits and finches.