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Red-breasted Nuthatch Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A small, compact bird with a sharp expression accentuated by its long, pointed bill. Red-breasted Nuthatches have very short tails and almost no neck; the body is plump or barrel-chested, and the short wings are very broad.

    Relative Size

    Noticeably smaller than a White-breasted Nuthatch

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 4.3 in (11 cm)
      • Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (8-13 g)
      • Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in (18-20 cm)