White-cheeked Nuthatch
NameWhite-cheeked Nuthatch
Common NameWhite-cheeked Nuthatch
Scientific NameSitta leucopsis
FamilySittidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are slate-blue to blue-grey, contrasting with a prominent black eye-stripe that extends from the bill through the eye. The supercilium and cheeks are pure white. Underparts are white, often with rufous or chestnut flanks and undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include clear, piping 'chip-chip-chip' or 'twi-twi-twi' calls, as well as a more nasal, drawn-out 'quank' or 'kwaa-kwaa'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas and associated mountain ranges, from northeastern Afghanistan eastward through Pakistan, India (Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand), Nepal, and Bhutan.
Identifying Featuresblack eye-stripe, white supercilium and cheeks, blue-grey upperparts, rufous flanks, climbs head-first down trees
Description
This medium-sized nuthatch is known for its distinctive facial pattern and agile climbing behavior, often descending tree trunks head-first. It inhabits coniferous and mixed temperate forests, foraging for insects and seeds.
