Bird Study 



65 



down ? When it ascends the tree does it follow a spiral path ? Does it use 

 its tail for a brace when climbing, as does the downy ? 



3. How are the nuthatch's toes arranged to assist it in climbing? 

 Are the three front toes of each foot directed downward when the bird 

 alights head downward? How does it manage its feet when in this 

 position ? 



4. What is the general color of the nuthatch above and below? 

 The color of the top and sides of head? Color of Back? Wings? Tail? 

 Throat? Breast? 



5. Does the black cap come down to the eyes on the nuthatch as 

 on the chickadee? Has the nuthatch a black bib? 



6. What is the shape of the beak of the 'nuthatch? For what is it 

 adapted? How does it differ from the beak of the chickadee? 



7. What is the food of the nuthatch? Where is it found? Does it 

 open nuts for the grubs or the nut meat? Observe the way it strikes its 

 beak into the suet, why does it strike so hard? 



8. How would you spell this bird's note? Have you heard it give 

 more than one note? 



9. How does the nuthatch benefit our trees? At what season does 

 it benefit them most? Why? 



10. Where do the nuthatches build their nests? Why do we see 

 the nuthatches oftener in winter than in summer? 



