Habitat
Mature conifer or open mixed conifer/broadleaf forest, being almost entirely confined to areas with large, mature Pinus kesiya, often with a major component of oak Quercus spp.. From 1,000 - 2,500 m.
China (mainland) (B) (NB), Myanmar (B) (NB), Thailand (B) (NB).
Rarity Status
Currently this species is not classified as a rarity in this country OR information has not been updated.
Population
Estimated population is 2,500 - 9,999 (2010) and decreasing.
Status EN
Habitat destruction and degradation through commercial logging and exploitation for fuelwood and kindling is the main threat.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Habits
Generally found in pairs, usually foraging high in pines.
Voice
A rapidly repeated 'gd-da-da' or 'dig-er-up', sometimes a more melodic 'kid-der-ku' with a louder last note, or a harsher 'gu-drr gu-drr gu-drr'. Also, a trumpet-like 'naa' and a clear piping 'kip'.
Giant Nuthatch (Sitta magna) [XC891161]
by Bob Berman from San Ju, Doi Lang, Fang, Chiangmai, Thailand (call)
Giant Nuthatch (Sitta magna) [XC626179]
by Peter Ericsson from Mon Pin (near Mae Sun), Amphoe Fang, Chang Wat Chiang Mai, Thailand (begging call, call)
Subspecies
Affinities unclear. Possibly closer to Palearctic "Eurasian Nuthatch (Sitta europaea) group" than to the brightly coloured predominantly tropical Blue Nuthatch (Sitta azurea) and Beautiful Nuthatch (Sitta formosa). Subspecies presumed to intergrade in southern China (south-western Yunnan).
The following 2 subspecies are recognised:
ligea Deignan, 1938 - Southern China in extreme southern Sichuan (Yanyuan and Miyi), western and southern Yunnan (southern to Longpeng and southern Xishuangbanna) and extreme south-western Guizhou (Xingyi, near Qianxinan).
magna Ramsay, 1876 - Central and eastern Myanmar (southern from Mogok hills, eastern from Menetaung range and Kalaw, to Mt Nattaung, in northern Karen), adjacent southern China (south-western Yunnan) and north-western Thailand.
Similar Species
Chestnut-vented Nuthatch (Sitta nagaensis) which is smaller with narrower head-bands and buff wash below. Crown colour matches mantle and buff wash to underparts.
References
See References.
BirdLife International Species Factsheet