Tufted Titmouse

Jill StaakeUpdated: Apr. 24, 2020

Long regarded as a southern species, the Tufted Titmouse has been spreading northward in recent years. Now these tame, confiding birds are familiar visitors at feeders from Michigan to New England.

Photos

Richard Paul
Tufted Titmouse
Roland Jordahl
Tufted Titmouse
Cheyenne B. Ware
Tufted Titmouse, juvenile

Information

Tufted TitmouseRoland Jordahl
Roland Jordahl Tufted Titmouse

Scientific Name: Baeolophus bicolor.
Family: Chickadee.
Length: 6-1/2 inches.
Wingspan: 9-3/4 inches.
Distinctive Markings: Gray above and white below, rusty-brown flanks, prominent pointed crest and large dark eyes.
Nest: Natural cavities in trees; female lays three to nine creamy spotted eggs.
Voice: Resembles “Peter, Peter, Peter” call; also has a harsh chattering sound to warn other birds of intruders.
Habitat: Deciduous woodlands, preferably in swamps and river bottoms; has adapted to residential wooded areas.
Diet: Insects, berries and seeds.
Backyard Favorites: Sunflower and safflower seeds, most kinds of nuts, peanut butter and suet.

Bird Song & Range Map

Listen to the Tufted Titmouse’s song and learn where to spot them!

Bird songs provided by the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Tufted Titmouse Bird SpeciesRange maps provided by Kaufman Field Guides, the official field guide of Birds & Blooms.

Originally Published: September 29, 2013

Jill Staake
Jill Staake
Jill lives in Tampa, Florida, and writes about gardening, butterflies, outdoor projects and birding. When she's not gardening, you'll find her reading, traveling and happily digging her toes into the sand on the beach.