Black-crested titmouse facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black-crested titmouse |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Baeolophus
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| Species: |
atricristatus
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| Range of 'Baeolophus atricristatus | |
The black-crested titmouse (Baeolophus atricristatus) is a small, lively songbird. It's also sometimes called the Mexican titmouse. This bird belongs to the tit family. For a long time, people thought it was just a type of tufted titmouse. But in 2002, scientists decided it was its own unique species.
You can find the black-crested titmouse mainly in southern Texas, Oklahoma, and east-central Mexico. Sometimes, these birds travel further. They have even been spotted as far north as St. Louis, Missouri.
What Does It Look Like?
This little bird is about 5.5 to 6.0 in (14 to 15 cm) long. That's about the size of your hand. It has a whitish belly and gray feathers on its back. The sides of its body are a pretty rusty color.
The most special part of this bird is its crest. This is a tuft of feathers on top of its head. Male titmice have a long, dark black crest that usually stands straight up. Female titmice also have a crest, but it's not as dark.
Where Does It Live?
The black-crested titmouse is very common. You can find it almost anywhere there are trees. It doesn't matter if the trees lose their leaves in winter or if they are part of a thick forest. You can even spot them in cities, living in shade trees in parks or yards.
Sounds and Food
The black-crested titmouse has a call that sounds like "peter, peter, peter." It's similar to the call of the tufted titmouse, but a bit shorter.
These birds eat a variety of things. Their diet includes tasty berries and nuts. They also enjoy eating spiders, insects, and even insect eggs. This helps them get all the energy they need.
Nests and Eggs
Black-crested titmice are clever about where they build their nests. They like to find cozy spots inside tree cavities. They might also choose telephone poles, old fence posts, or even bird boxes that people put up.
Female titmice usually lay four to seven eggs. These eggs are white with small reddish-brown spots. They are typically laid in March or April, just as spring begins.
See also
In Spanish: Herrerillo crestinegro para niños
