The Yunnan nuthatch is a bird species in the nuthatch family Sittidae. It was first described by William Robert Ogilvie-Grant in 1900 based on a male holotype. It is a small nuthatch, measuring 12 centimetres (4.7 in) in length on average and weighs between 7.5 and 13 grams. The grey-blue upperparts contrast with the light, smooth, buffy lowerparts. It has a fine white eyebrow above a black eyestripe, which is distinct when the plumage is fresh, and exhibits a small degree of sexual dimorphism. A noisy bird, it produces simple, nasal sounds, sometimes in repetitive series.
Region
Southwest China
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in Yunnan with records from adjacent parts of Sichuan and Guizhou, primarily in montane pine forests. It prefers open stands of Yunnan pine and other pines with a sparse understory, often using the outer canopy to forage. The species is associated with conifer-dominated slopes and ridges and may occur locally in mixed pine–oak woodland. Fragmentation of mature pine habitat influences its local distribution and density.
Altitude Range
1800–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to southwestern China, the Yunnan nuthatch favors open pine woodlands where it forages actively along outer branches. It is notably vocal, giving simple, nasal calls in short series. Habitat loss and projected climate change pose risks to its limited range, contributing to conservation concern.
Schematic representation of the Yunnan nuthatch in fresh plumage.
View of the snow-covered Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with Pinus yunnanensis pines in the foreground.
Temperament
active and vocal
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in tree cavities, lining nests with plant fibers and bark; pairs are territorial in the breeding season. Outside breeding, it may join small conspecific groups and mixed-species flocks with other canopy insectivores. Foraging is typically on outer branches and twigs, often hanging acrobatically while gleaning.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are simple, nasal notes delivered singly or in short, repetitive series reminiscent of yank-yank phrases. The voice is penetrating and frequently used during foraging and contact. Song is limited but includes repeated nasal phrases during the breeding season.
