Kashmir nuthatch

The Kashmir nuthatch is a species of bird in the family Sittidae. It is found in the northernmost regions of the Indian subcontinent, primarily in the mid-altitudes of the Himalayas. The species ranges across Afghanistan, India, Nepal and Pakistan. The global population size has not been quantified, but the species is described as common in eastern Afghanistan and north-western India, and fairly common in Nepal.

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Distribution

Region

Western Himalayas

Typical Environment

Found from eastern Afghanistan through northern Pakistan, the Kashmir region of India, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand, to western and central Nepal. It favors mature temperate and mixed broadleaf–conifer forests, including oak, deodar cedar, pine, and fir. The species also uses forest edges, clearings with scattered trees, and occasionally orchards. It is largely resident, making local elevational movements in response to weather and food availability.

Altitude Range

1500–3300 m

Climate Zone

Highland

Characteristics

Size13–14 cm

Wing Span22–26 cm

Male Weight0.018 kg

Female Weight0.017 kg

Life Expectancy5 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Kashmir nuthatch is an agile tree-climber that forages by creeping along trunks and branches, often descending headfirst. It inhabits mid-elevation Himalayan forests and can join mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Like many nuthatches, it nests in cavities and may plaster the entrance with mud to adjust the opening. Its population is considered stable across much of its range.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

active and agile

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations

Social Behavior

Typically seen singly or in pairs during the breeding season; small family groups and participation in mixed-species flocks are common in the non-breeding season. It is monogamous and nests in natural tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, sometimes narrowing the entrance with mud. Both sexes defend a territory around the nest.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of clear, piping whistles and sharp 'sit-sit' notes, often delivered from mid-canopy perches. Calls include short, nasal contact notes during foraging and more insistent, ringing phrases in early breeding season.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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