Giant Nuthatch
NameGiant Nuthatch
Common NameGiant Nuthatch
Scientific NameSitta magna
FamilySittidae
Wingspan (cm)29
Length (cm)19.5
Weight (g)41.5
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are blue-grey, contrasting with a prominent black eye-stripe that extends from the bill to the shoulder. The throat and cheeks are white, while the flanks are rufous-orange. The underparts are generally pale greyish-white.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a loud, clear, and often repeated 'chip-chip-chip' or 'chick-chick-chick' call. It also produces a more varied, chattering song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in Southeast Asia, specifically in parts of Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China. It typically inhabits mature pine and oak forests at elevations between 900 and 2,500 meters.
Identifying FeaturesLargest nuthatch species, Long, slender bill, Prominent black eye-stripe, Blue-grey upperparts, Rufous flanks, Climbs head-down on tree trunks
Description
The Giant Nuthatch is the largest species of nuthatch, known for its distinctive habit of climbing head-first down tree trunks. It forages for insects and seeds in mature pine and oak forests, often at high altitudes. This species is characterized by its long bill and striking plumage.
