Nucifraga columbiana
adult
David Osborn: Clark’s Nutcracker.
Clark’s Nutcracker is a well-marked and distinctive songbird. The sexes are similar. Adults have subtle pale purplish-gray body plumage that is palest on the face and undertail. The wings are mainly black except for a broad white patch (the inner flight feathers). The tail has black central feathers and white outer feathers. The legs and slender bill are black. Juveniles are similar to adults but subtly paler overall.
Clark’s Nutcracker is present year-round in its favored upland terrain. Pine nuts are the mainstay of the species’ diet, and the chances of individual birds surviving the harsh winter months are boosted by the creation of large stores of nuts, used as a larder. There is also an inquisitive side to their nature, and birds on the lookout for food will sometimes visit forest campers and picnickers.
adult
adult
David Osborn: Clark’s Nutcracker.
FACT FILE
LENGTH 12 in (30.5 cm)
FOOD Mainly conifer seeds, but also an opportunistic feeder
HABITAT Mountain conifer forests
STATUS Widespread and common resident
VOICE Calls include a rasping shrerr-shrerrr and harsh craa-craa-craa
