The nuthatch is the only UK bird that can climb down tree trunks headfirst, a behaviour that earns it the nickname ‘upside-down bird.’ This remarkable skill, combined with its strong, sharp beak, allows the nuthatch to forage for insects and seeds in the bark of trees, making it a year-round resident of our forests.

Winter is a great time to spot nuthatches as they become more active in search of food to help them survive the colder months. During the winter, their diet consists of a variety of seeds, insects, and berries, which they store in crevices of tree bark to consume later. Nuthatches have been known to hide food to ensure they have a steady supply throughout the season, a clever strategy that helps them survive when food is scarce. As the weather gets colder, nuthatches are often seen in mixed-species flocks, teaming up with other woodland birds to forage.

In Hampshire, the nuthatch can be found in a range of habitats, from mature woodlands to parklands. Several nature reserves run by the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust offer prime locations to spot these charming birds, especially in the winter months. Reserves such as Blashford Lakes Nature Reserve and in and around Testwood Lakes Nature Reserve provide the perfect habitat for nuthatches, with their mature trees and quiet woodland areas offering ample opportunities to observe these birds in action. These reserves also offer a peaceful escape for birdwatchers hoping to witness the nuthatch’s unique foraging techniques.

Hampshire’s woodlands come alive in winter, with nuthatches adding to the chorus of birds active throughout the colder months. Visitors to these reserves can also enjoy the sights of other winter residents like woodpeckers, tits, and treecreepers, making for an exciting day of birdwatching. As you explore, remember to look out for the nuthatch’s characteristic behaviour - climbing tree trunks headfirst, pecking at bark, and even hanging upside down to access hard-to-reach food.