Long-tailed Tit
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:Baresi_franco" title="User:Baresi franco">Francis C. Franklin</a> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
NameLong-tailed Tit
Common NameLong-tailed Tit
Scientific NameAegithalos caudatus
FamilyAegithalidae
Wingspan (cm)14.5
Length (cm)14.5
Weight (g)8
Plumage DetailsThis species has a distinctive white head with broad black stripes running from the bill over the eye and along the sides of the crown. Its back is grey, wings are black with white edges, and the underparts are whitish with a pinkish wash on the flanks and rump. The tail is very long and black with white outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are high-pitched and thin, often described as a trilling 'sri-sri-sri' or a sharp 'tsirp', used frequently for contact within a flock.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswoodland, hedgerow, garden, scrub, park
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across temperate Europe and Asia, from Great Britain and France eastwards through central Asia to Japan and Korea.
Identifying Featuresextremely long tail relative to body size, small, round, fluffy body, distinctive black and white head pattern, pinkish wash on flanks and rump, social behavior in active flocks
Description
The Long-tailed Tit is a tiny, fluffy passerine bird known for its disproportionately long tail. These highly social birds are often seen flitting through trees and bushes in small, active flocks, especially outside the breeding season.
