I was so happy to have a couple Red-breasted Nuthatches return to my yard after a long absence. These energetic little nuthatches had been daily regulars in my yard thanks to an abundance of the coniferous habitat they prefer.
But sadly they had been conspicuous by their absence for many months. I recorded one Red-breasted Nuthatch on December 27, 2011 during a Project FeederWatch count but none since.
Many factors may have caused its temporary absence, from weather to food supplies to mortality and predation. But the mystery of my missing nuthatches will remain unsolved.
It's nothing new for birdwatchers to have no clear explanation for the disappearance (or appearance) of a bird species from their yards. I can live with that - I'm just glad to have my nuthatches back!
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Eileen, they are somewhat irruptive so you may very well have them only during the winter. We were lucky enough to have them year-round, so their absence was notable.
Dawn, I'm glad too!
Ellen, sorry until I'm sure they're back for good, I'm not letting any go!
Kathiesbirds, oh no! I'm losing a FB friend from the northeast!
Dan, they're a great member of the mixed flock!
Posted by: The Zen Birdfeeder | July 18, 2012 at 12:09 PM
Glad you have them back. I have them in my new yard, which is exciting.
Posted by: Dan (docforestal on Twitter) | July 18, 2012 at 08:55 AM
I used to have them then they disappeared, can't tell you the last time I had them, maybe they will be back this winter. Enjoy them!
Posted by: Eileen Cooper | July 18, 2012 at 08:28 AM
I am so glad that they are back for you. I have only seen one once in the 2 years that I have lived here in Andover, MA and I think it was around the same time that you saw yours! I have been worried about this species because others have posted about not seing them either. I won't be seeing them anytime soon since Gus and I are moving back to Tucson!
Posted by: Kathiesbirds | July 17, 2012 at 06:22 PM
I love these little birds and their calls! I haven't had one at the new house yet... maybe yours can send someone over for me. :)
Posted by: Ellen | July 17, 2012 at 02:41 PM
Glad they are back
Posted by: Dawn Simmons Fine | July 17, 2012 at 12:55 PM via Facebook