Although it may sometimes get lost in the crowd of sparrows that habitually hang out in our garden, another fairly frequent visitor is the little nuthatch.
It usually comes down when the others take off. The birds are very wary of danger, especially when the hawk is about, and are quick to take flight, which is when the little nuthatch swoops in and takes advantage of a lull in the action at the bird feeder. This nimble little creature is quite the acrobat and, with his long beak, can reach all those tasty slivers of peanuts that are mixed in with the seed.
I’m always rather nervous when I go out to fill up the feeders as the nuthatch does not appear to be much afraid of humans and does, on occasion, fly down while I am still standing there which, given my ornithophobia, can be quite disconcerting. I wish I was one of these people who can hold out their hand and have the bird come and perch on it, but I would probably have heart failure.
The Nature of Things 
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I’m so jealous! I love that bird but have never had one in the garden. Great photos Sue especially the final one!
Thank you, Denzil. This is the first year that I’ve noticed it as being a regular visitor, probably because I’m now using a fruit and nut blend in the bird feeders.
If you’re interested, I’ve just started a nature blog up of my own: https://denzilnature.com/ Would love it if you find the time to spend a minute there. Thanks Sue.
They are entertaining little squirts! LOVE that wing-fan image. Awesome capture.
Thank you, Monika!
I often wish I could hang upside down like the birds and even the squirrels to eat my breakfast. Might break up the monotony of the morning!
Haha! That would be quite a trick.
Glorious shots of one of my favorite birds. They rank right up there with woodpeckers in terms of their agility.
I agree, they are very agile and entertaining, Sandy.
The little nuthatches are such acrobatic beauties! And your captures are fantastic. 🙂
Thank you so much, Lynette!
I love nuthatches and hope to some locally in the spring.
I’ve never really noticed them in the garden before but now I’m using the fruit and nut blend in the feeders, they seem to be regular visitors. I’m not sure if they’re here all year round so will have to wait and see.
They’re so cute, Sue, and that last photo’s just great.
Thanks, Janet!
Lovely photos of your nimblesome nuthatch! They are such fun to watch.
Thank you! They are always a welcome addition to the garden.
I’m always happy to see the beautiful nuthatch at my feeders. Your photos are delightful.
Many thanks, Mary! The nuthatch makes an interesting little subject to watch and photograph.
Fun series, Sue. Love the last one!!
Thank you, Amy!
That’s awesome! I wish one would come to my Suet feeder. I’ll keep hoping!
I think it’s the peanuts that are bringing them in.
Oh! That’s good to know. My suet feeder is a peanut one. 😀
Fantastic captures of the nuthatch. 😊
Thank you, Pepper!