Why is a Nuthatch called a Nuthatch?

I have been wondering lately. Wondering is different than thinking or even contemplating. It’s just wondering. It’s about stuff and things. Most times it causes me to smile or giggle.

Anyway, it seems like we all need a break. So, I’ve been wondering about a lot of things lately. Here’s one for one: Why is that “sparky” little bird that comes to your feeder called a Nuthatch? Where did that name come from? First of all, nuts don’t even hatch! They grow on trees and bushes. Second, this little bird doesn’t eat nuts! He (she) eats suet one buys from Marlo at Johnson’s Foods. He (Marlo) also sells bird balls for a change.

So, I began wondering some more and I thought of you!

Now I’m not trying to start a controversy. Thinking and knowing are two different things. This would be for fun only. You could start going around town and ask people why this “sparky” little bird is called a Nuthatch. Just ask that question and see what you get and then print it in the paper. Or to save footwear, you could ask the public the question in the paper and see what response you get, reserving your right to censor improper responses.

If I come up with any more ideas as I wonder along, I’ll let you know.

Sincerely, Bill from Lutsen

Editor’s note: So, if anyone out there knows why a Nuthatch is called a Nuthatch, send your replies to ccnh@boreal.org.