Red-breasted nuthatch 5/17/25

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 5/17/25

Observation Time: 11:00 a.m.

Observation Location: Moose Hill Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary

Common Name: Red-breasted Nuthatch

Scientific Name: Sitta canadensis

Comments: The Red-breasted Nuthatch collects resin globules from coniferous trees and plasters them around the entrance of its nest hole. It may carry the resin in its bill or on pieces of bark that it uses as an applicator. The male puts the resin primarily around the outside of the hole while the female puts it around the inside. The resin may help to keep out predators or competitors. The nuthatch avoids the resin by diving directly through the hole.

Red-breasted nuthatches can be found year-round in Massachusetts. I heard this one the day before I actually saw it in the same area, so I presume that it is nesting in that area.

More Information: All About Birds