The Algerian nuthatch or Kabyle nuthatch is a species of bird in the nuthatch family Sittidae. It is a medium-sized nuthatch, measuring between 11.5 cm (4.5 in) and 12.5 cm (4.9 in). The upperparts are bluish-grey. The male can be distinguished from the female by the black front of its crown. The species is sedentary; it feeds on arthropods in summer and on seeds in winter. The breeding season takes place around May–June. The nest, built in a hole of tree, shelters a laying of three or four eggs, brooded by the female. The chicks are fed by both parents.
Region
North Africa (northeastern Algeria)
Typical Environment
Occurs in fragmented patches of montane forest within the Petite Kabylie, favoring old-growth stands with a mix of conifers and broadleaf trees. It frequents Algerian fir, Atlas cedar, pines, and oaks where natural cavities and rough bark are abundant. The species uses the mid to upper canopy and trunks, often along forest edges and glades. Its range is highly localized and isolated by unsuitable surrounding habitats.
Altitude Range
900–2000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Discovered in 1975, the Algerian nuthatch is Africa’s only true nuthatch and is restricted to a few mountain forests in northeastern Algeria. It is strongly tied to mature, cavity-bearing trees, nesting in natural holes. Wildfires and habitat degradation are the main threats. The species is named after the Belgian ornithologist Jacques Ledant.
A female Algerian nuthatch, with very little black on the crown, barely spotting the front of the forehead.
The male Krüper's nuthatch has the front half of the crown black, like the Algerian nuthatch; it is the closest relative of the latter species.
Algerian nuthatch at nest, in a tree cavity.
An individual photographed near Minar Zarza, in the southeast of the species' distribution.
Temperament
active and somewhat shy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs within territories, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes; the female incubates while the male supplies food. Breeding is around May–June with 3–4 eggs, and both parents feed the nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of clear, ringing whistles and sharp notes, delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include nasal, metallic 'sit-sit' and thin, piping contact notes.
Plumage
Bluish-grey upperparts with pale underparts washed buff on the flanks; clean white throat and face. Fine, neat feathering with a subtle dark eye line. Tail short with contrasting outer tail feathers when spread.
Diet
In summer it gleans arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders from bark and foliage. In winter it shifts to seeds and nuts, wedging them into bark and hammering them open. It may cache food in crevices for later use. Foraging is mostly on trunks and larger branches, moving nimbly head-down like other nuthatches.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in mature mixed and coniferous montane forests with rough-barked trees and plentiful cavities. Often forages along forest edges, clearings, and older stands where bark crevices are abundant.
