Challenge Three: A Trifecta of Nuthatches!

 This challenge is simple: find White-breasted, Red-breasted, and Pygmy Nuthatches all in one location. They don’t have to be sharing the same tree, but they should be seen or heard along the same trail or in the same area. 

Nuthatches are bark and seed gleaners, and as such, are most often found on tree trunks. Places where the three species overlap would be low- and mid-elevation forests with a component of ponderosa pine. Try looking and listening in spots near the river, along ponderosa pine draws on the east side of the valley, and low-elevation pine forests on west side of the valley. 

Keep in mind, a good tactic for first detecting nuthatches and telling the species apart is by hearing their calls. Not sure what they sound like? Use Cornell’s All About Birds website to take a listen.

Places where you might be able to find all three include:

Near Florence:

Hoblitt Lane

Tie Chute Lane near the school

Chief Looking Glass Fishing Access Site

Florence Bridge Fishing Access Site 

Near Stevensville:

The Willoughby 40

Lee Metcalf’s Wildlife Viewing Area

Stevensville River Road

Stevensville River Park

Near Victor:

Bell Crossing Fishing Access

Red Crow Road

Near Hamilton:

River Park

Steve Powell Park

If you find a good spot and are willing to share with others, please post in the comment below!!

As always, feel free to continue with Challenges One and Two.