The yellow-billed nuthatch is a species of bird in the family Sittidae. It is found in Hainan, Laos, and Vietnam.
Region
Southeast Asia (Hainan, Laos, Vietnam)
Typical Environment
Occurs in subtropical and tropical evergreen broadleaf and mixed pine–broadleaf forests. Prefers mature forest and well-wooded ridges but will also use forest edges and semi-degraded woodland. Forages from mid-storey to canopy, frequently along trunks and large branches. Sensitive to extensive logging and fragmentation, with strongest presence in relatively intact habitats.
Altitude Range
600–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Named for its distinctive yellow bill, this small nuthatch creeps along trunks and branches and can descend headfirst with ease. It often joins mixed-species flocks with tits and warblers while foraging. Habitat loss in parts of its range, especially on Hainan, is a concern. Its quiet, nasal calls can make it inconspicuous despite active foraging.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs or small family parties and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Nests in tree cavities, using natural holes or old woodpecker holes, and lines the nest with plant fibers and bark. Territorial around nest sites during breeding but otherwise fairly tolerant of conspecifics.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives soft, nasal notes and thin sit-sit contact calls. Song is a series of high, slightly whiny notes, less ringing than some other nuthatches.
Plumage
Clean blue‑gray upperparts with warm buff to cinnamon underparts and a pale throat and face.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small arthropods such as beetles, caterpillars, and spiders gleaned from bark and foliage. Probes crevices and flakes bark to extract prey, sometimes hammering to dislodge insects. May take some seeds or nuts seasonally but remains primarily insectivorous.
Preferred Environment
Forages on trunks, larger limbs, and the undersides of branches in mid to upper canopy. Often follows mixed-species flocks along forest strata to exploit disturbed insects and shared vigilance.
