These tiny songbirds are always on the go, skillfully navigating up and down pine tree trunks in search of insects and seeds tucked away beneath the bark.

These birds are true team players. Their family members, particularly the young males, pitch in to care for and nourish the young ones. On frosty nights, the entire group, sometimes numbering over 100 individuals, huddle together in tree hollows to conserve energy and stay snug. This communal strategy helps them ensure they have enough vitality to survive.

Pygmy nuthatches are incredibly social, often mingling with fellow birds like chickadees and kinglets to form mixed gatherings. Keep an eye out for them during your hikes—they're hard to miss with their lively personalities, emitting a constant high-pitched call: pip-pip-pip-pippety.

Interested in learning more? Click here.

P.S. This painting depicts two Pygmy Nuthatches sharing a tasty snakefly.