Eastern Rock Nuthatch
NameEastern Rock Nuthatch
Common NameEastern Rock Nuthatch
Scientific NameSitta tephronota
FamilySittidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)34
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are slate-grey, contrasting with whitish to pale buff or pinkish-buff underparts, particularly on the flanks and vent. A broad, prominent black eye-stripe extends from the lores to the side of the neck, bordered above by a distinct white supercilium. The bill is long, slender, and dark grey.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include loud, clear, whistling 'twee-twee-twee' notes, often repeated, and a harsher 'chick' or 'chit' alarm call.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsmountain, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in a range extending from eastern Turkey through the Caucasus, Iran, Afghanistan, and parts of Central Asia (Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan) to Pakistan.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a nuthatch, Long, slender bill, Prominent broad black eye-stripe, Distinct white supercilium, Grey upperparts with pale buffy/pinkish underparts, Preference for rocky habitats
Description
The Eastern Rock Nuthatch is a medium-sized nuthatch characterized by its grey upperparts, pale underparts, and a prominent black eye-stripe. It is typically found foraging on rocky cliffs and boulders, using its long bill to extract insects from crevices.
