H.J. Ruiz – Avian101

I’ve been fortunate enough to have had many bird species in my backyard for a few years now.. I believe that my backyard has a bit of things that are naturally needed to be a good temporary or permanent habitat for birds. I have several kinds of trees, grasses, shrubs, bushes and plants. I have a small stream running along a shallow creek. The combination of those elements provides a good shelter and safe habitat for any species of birds. I account for complementing for the rest. I make sure they get their favorite seeds and maintain their habitat to be efficient, clean and in good looking condition. Today I will feature a friendly and dynamic little bird, the Brown-headed Nuthatch. Say hello to my little friend! The Brown-headed Nuthatch  is a small songbird found in pine forests throughout the Southeastern United States. The bird, like other nuthatches, possesses a sharp black nail-like beak, which it uses to pound open seeds. It is a frequent visitor to feeding stations and is highly fond of sunflower seeds and suet  cakes. Bold and inquisitive, this bird is readily approachable by humans. The bird is frequently observed using a small chip of bark held in its beak as a tool to dig for insects. Their total length is 3.5–4.3 in, wingspan is 6.3–7.1 in and body mass is 0.35–0.42 oz. This species sports a brown cap with narrow black eyeline and buff white cheeks, chin, and belly. Its wings are bluish-gray in color. A small white spot is found at the nape of the neck. The bird’s call is a sharp whee-hyah sounding very similar to a “rubber duck” toy and particularly is loud for a bird its size. They also make softer “pit pit pit” calls while in flight as well as other squeaking noises. If heard or seen well, this species is virtually unmistakable in the wild. Next, some pictures for you. Enjoy!

Text and photographs © HJ Ruiz – Avian101