Black-capped Chickadee
Image: Alan D. Wilson, www.naturespicsonline.com (CC BY-SA 2.5)
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 extending from the forehead to the nape, a black bib under the chin, and bright white cheeks. The back and wings are gray, with some white edging on the flight feathers. Underparts are white, often with buffy or rusty flanks.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, which can vary in the number of 'dee' notes depending on the perceived threat. They also have a clear, whistled 'fee-bee' or 'fee-bee-bee' song.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, suburban, park
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Canada and the northern half of the United States, extending south into the Appalachian Mountains and west to the Pacific coast.
Identifying FeaturesBlack cap, Black bib, White cheeks, Small size, Gray back and wings, Distinctive 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call
Description
A small, active songbird characterized by its distinctive black cap and bib, contrasting white cheeks, and a gray and white body. These birds are highly acrobatic, often seen hanging upside down while foraging for insects and seeds in trees and shrubs.
