Measuring just 12.5 cm in length, the treecreeper is easily recognised by its slender, down-curved bill and stiff tail feathers, which it uses as a prop while climbing tree trunks in a spiral fashion. Their curved toes also help them cling to the bark. Unlike the nuthatch, which can move both up and down tree trunks, the treecreeper almost always ascends. Once it reaches the top, it flies down to the base of the next tree to begin the process again.

Its foraging style is just as fascinating. With its curved bill, the treecreeper probes into the tiniest crevices of bark to find insects, spiders, and other invertebrates. During winter, when these food sources are harder to come by, it will supplement its diet with seeds, helping it survive the leaner months.

Treecreepers live in mature woodlands and can also be found in large gardens and parks, particularly where old trees provide ideal feeding and nesting opportunities. Despite being widespread, they can be hard to spot. Their mottled brown and white plumage blends seamlessly with tree bark, offering them excellent camouflage from predators, and from people.

Nesting takes place from March to July, with treecreepers typically choosing sites behind loose bark or within natural crevices. Their nests are made with spider’s webs, twigs, moss, and feathers. The female incubates the clutch of 5–6 eggs, while both parents feed the chicks once hatched. After fledging, the young are quickly taught the skills of foraging by their parents.

Though their populations remain stable, treecreepers still face threats from habitat loss. They stay in their own small territories, with some sticking to only one tree. Protecting and managing mature woodlands is key to supporting this species.

For those keen to spot a treecreeper, it pays to look closely at tree trunks, particularly in quiet woodland areas during the early morning. While easily overlooked, the treecreeper’s behaviour and ecological niche make it one of the most fascinating birds in the UK’s wild spaces- proof that some of nature’s wonders are hidden in plain sight.