There are about 32 species of birds in the nuthatch family. They are found across the Northern Hemisphere, including North America, Europe, and Asia, with a few species also found in northern Africa.

Nuthatches are small, stocky birds, about 3.5–7.5 inches (8.9–19.1 cm) in length. They have short tails, strong legs and feet, and straight, pointed bills. Many species are gray or bluish-gray on their upperparts and white, buff, or brown on their underparts. Males and females usually look alike, although there can be some differences between the sexes in a few species.

They eat insects and other small invertebrates, as well as seeds and nuts. Some species also eat berries and other fruits. Their diet varies depending on the species and the season.

Nuthatches live mostly in forests. They climb up, down, and sideways along tree trunks and branches while searching for insects hidden in cracks and under bark. They can climb down trees headfirst, something most other birds cannot do.

Nuthatches get their name from the way they sometimes wedge nuts or large seeds into cracks in tree bark. They then use their strong bills to hammer the food open. Some species also store food in cracks in bark to eat later.