Tufted Titmouse Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  Tufted Titmice look large among the small birds that come to feeders, an impression that comes from their large head and eye, thick neck, and full bodies. The pointed crest and stout bill help identify titmice even in silhouette.

  Relative Size

  Noticeably larger than a chickadee

  sparrow-sized or smaller

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 5.5-6.3 in (14-16 cm)
    • Weight: 0.6-0.9 oz (18-26 g)
    • Wingspan: 7.9-10.2 in (20-26 cm)

• Color Pattern

  Soft silvery gray above and white below, with a rusty or peach-colored wash down the flanks. A black patch just above the bill makes the bird look snub-nosed.

• Behavior

  Tufted Titmice are acrobatic foragers, if a bit slower and more methodical than chickadees. They often flock with chickadees, nuthatches, and woodpeckers and are regular visitors to feeders, where they are assertive over smaller birds. Their flight tends to be fluttery but level rather than undulating.

• Habitat

  You’ll find Tufted Titmice in most eastern woodlands below 2,000 feet elevation, including deciduous and evergreen forests. Tufted Titmice are also common visitors at feeders and can be found in backyards, parks, and orchards.