Bird of the Month: Red-breasted Nuthatch

The Red-breasted Nuthatch is normally found in the high-altitude conifer forests of our local mountains. It’s a tiny bird with a rusty-orange breast, a dark cap, and a bold white eyebrow stripe with a black line through the eye. For all its diminutive size, it has a loud, ringing voice that clearly announces its presence.

The secretive, colorful Red-breasted Nuthatch is only rarely seen in coastal Orange County. But this year is quite special. Southern California is experiencing a conspicuous Red-breasted Nuthatch “irruption” in the fall of 2026, with frequent reported sightings of this acrobatic tree-hugger nimbly searching for insects and conifer seeds in our local parks.

Whether driven south and to lower elevations from the montane conifer forests by food shortages or by chaotic, unseasonal weather patterns, the reason remains subject to speculation.

Meanwhile, keep your eyes and ears keenly attuned to their unexpected but delightful presence in our local tree-filled parks. Laugh as you watch them walk headfirst down tree trunks and branches like tiny wind-up toys. Listen intently for their tinny, nasal, tin-horn-sounding “yank, yank, yank” calls high in the trees.

Once seen, you won’t soon forget this spirited visitor just looking for a good meal.

Photos by James Kendall
Text compiled by Betty Kanne