Chestnut-bellied Nuthatch
NameChestnut-bellied Nuthatch
Common NameChestnut-bellied Nuthatch
Scientific NameSitta cinnamoventris
FamilySittidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsThe bird has blue-grey upperparts, a prominent black eye-stripe extending from the bill to the shoulder, and a white supercilium and throat. Its underparts are a rich rufous-chestnut color, which extends to the flanks and undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, clear, often repeated 'chip-chip-chip' or 'sit-sit-sit' notes, as well as a trilling 'twi-twi-twi'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Himalayas and associated hill ranges, from northern Pakistan through India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and into parts of Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam).
Identifying Featuresblue-grey upperparts, chestnut underparts, black eye-stripe, white throat/cheek, long, pointed bill, ability to climb trees head-first
Description
This small, active bird is characterized by its blue-grey upperparts and rich chestnut underparts, with a distinctive black eye-stripe. It is typically found foraging on tree trunks and branches, often descending head-first in search of insects and seeds in broadleaf and mixed forests.
