Black-capped Chickadee
NameBlack-capped Chickadee
Common NameBlack-capped Chickadee
Scientific NamePoecile atricapillus
FamilyParidae
Wingspan (cm)18.5
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)11.5
Plumage DetailsFeatures a prominent black cap and bib, bright white cheeks, a gray back, and a white belly with buff-colored flanks. The flanks often show more heavily edged, darker buff compared to similar species.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, which can vary in the number of 'dee' notes. Its song is a clear, whistled 'fee-bee fee-bay', often with the first note higher in pitch.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodlands, suburban areas, forests, tree branches
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across northern parts of the United States and most of Canada. Its range extends south to eastern Kentucky and eastern Missouri, with hybrid zones occurring in the Appalachians.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap and bib, White cheeks, Gray back, Buff flanks, Distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, Whistled 'fee-bee fee-bay' song
Description
A small, active songbird easily recognized by its distinctive black cap and bib contrasting with white cheeks. These curious and bold birds are often found flitting through trees and visiting bird feeders, known for their acrobatic movements and characteristic calls.
