Clark's Nutcracker
Image: iandeas (cc-by-nc)
NameClark's Nutcracker
Common NameClark's Nutcracker
Scientific NameNucifraga columbiana
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)28.5
Weight (g)132.5
Plumage DetailsMostly pale gray plumage, with contrasting black primary and secondary flight feathers. It has prominent white patches on the inner secondaries and white outer tail feathers, visible in flight and when perched. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of harsh, grating calls, often described as a loud 'kraaa' or 'charrr'. They also produce softer chattering and clicking sounds.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsconifer forest, subalpine forest, montane forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in mountainous regions of western North America, from British Columbia and Alberta south through the western United States to Baja California and New Mexico.
Identifying Featuresoverall gray body plumage, black wings with large white patches, white outer tail feathers, long, pointed black bill, often found in pine forests
Description
The Clark's Nutcracker is a medium-sized, gray bird with striking black wings and a pointed bill, often found in high-elevation conifer forests. Renowned for its remarkable ability to cache thousands of pine seeds, it plays a crucial role in the regeneration of various pine species across western North America.
