Nuthatch

The classic nuthatch features a long pointed bill, short tail, and black mask; its underparts range from peachy-buff to snow-white and orangish. Typically seen alone or in pairs, it moves along tree trunks and branches in deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, gardens, and bird feeders. Resembling a miniature woodpecker, it lacks tail support and occasionally descends head-first. While predominantly feeding in canopies, it also forages on the ground near fallen seeds. Easily missed until its distinct loud calls are recognized, it''s essential to differentiate from other nuthatch species in overlapping ranges.