Chestnut-backed Chickadee
NameChestnut-backed Chickadee
Common NameChestnut-backed Chickadee
Scientific NamePoecile rufescens
FamilyParidae
Wingspan (cm)20
Length (cm)12.25
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsFeatures a dark brown cap, black throat, and prominent white cheek patches. Its most distinctive feature is the rich chestnut-colored back and flanks, contrasting with grayish-white underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call, often faster than other chickadees, and various trills and whistles.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound along the Pacific coast of North America, from southeastern Alaska through British Columbia and Washington, south to central California.
Identifying FeaturesChestnut-colored back and flanks, Black cap, White cheek patch, Small size, Active foraging behavior
Description
This small, active songbird is known for its acrobatic foraging, often hanging upside down while searching for insects. It is a common resident of coniferous and mixed evergreen forests along the Pacific coast.
