Black-capped Chickadees are always a delight to see, with their round tiny bodies and large heads. They are no stranger to people, found in urban neighborhoods as well as in forest habitat.
Size & Shape: 4 3/4″ – 5 3/4″. Small long slender tail and short bill. Has a large head and thick neck.
Color: Black cap and bib, white cheeks, gray, black and white back and wings and buffy brown underparts.
Behavior: If you see one, you’ll likely see more as these birds travel in flocks. They also head to feeders and then quickly depart, often to stash their food to eat later or somewhere else.
Habitat: Forests, parks, and backyards.
Field Marks: Look for the black cap and bib, and gray and black back.
Song and Calls: Listen here.
Fun Facts: You don’t have to have the ears of an expert to identify the call of a Black-capped Chickadee. They will chirp out their name for you: “Chicka-dee-dee-dee!” It’s also their alarm call, with more “dees” signifying greater nearby danger.
Scientific Name: Selasphorus rufus