Clark's Nutcracker
NameClark's Nutcracker
Common NameClark's Nutcracker
Scientific NameNucifraga columbiana
FamilyCorvidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)135
Plumage DetailsThe body is predominantly pale gray, with a lighter, almost white face. The wings are black with a prominent white patch on the inner secondaries. The tail is black with white outer tail feathers. The bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its harsh, grating calls, often described as 'kraaa' or 'karr-rack', which are loud and far-carrying. They also produce softer chattering and clicking sounds.
Primary Dietgranivore
Primary Habitatsconiferous forest, subalpine forest, montane forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in western North America, from British Columbia and Alberta south through the western United States to northern Baja California and New Mexico, primarily in mountainous regions.
Identifying Featurespale gray body, black wings with white patches, black tail with white outer feathers, long, pointed black bill, found in high-elevation pine forests
Description
The Clark's Nutcracker is a medium-sized, pale gray bird with striking black and white wings and a long, pointed bill. It is highly adapted to high-elevation pine forests, where it specializes in harvesting and caching pine seeds for winter survival.
