The chestnut-bellied nuthatch is a species of bird belonging to the family Sittidae.
Region
Indian Subcontinent and adjacent Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found in a variety of wooded habitats including dry and moist deciduous forests, mixed woodlands, groves, and well-treed parks and gardens. It favors areas with mature trees that provide ample bark surface and natural cavities. Common in foothills and low mountains as well as in lowland forests. Often joins mixed-species foraging flocks along forest edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
0–2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Nuthatches are among the few birds that routinely climb headfirst down tree trunks, giving them access to prey other birds miss. They often wedge seeds into bark crevices and hammer them open with their chisel-like bill, and may cache food for later. Pairs typically hold year-round territories and nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes.
Temperament
active and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Pairs maintain territories through much of the year. Nests are placed in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes and are lined with soft materials; both parents tend the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, nasal 'sit-sit' notes and quick, chattering sequences. Song is a series of whistled or nasal phrases delivered rapidly, often from mid-canopy perches.
Plumage
Slate-blue upperparts with a contrasting rich chestnut to rufous underside; throat often slightly paler than belly. Male typically shows a darker, blackish cap and more defined dark eye-line, while the female’s crown is greyer and markings softer. Wings and tail are bluish-gray with subtle darker barring.
Diet
Feeds primarily on insects and other arthropods gleaned from bark and foliage, including beetles, ants, and caterpillars. Also takes seeds, nuts, and small fruits, especially outside the breeding season. Frequently wedges seeds into cracks and hammers them open, and may cache surplus food in bark crevices.
Preferred Environment
Forages on trunks and main branches of mature trees, often working methodically along bark surfaces. Uses forest edges, open woodlands, and wooded gardens where large trees are available.
