Bridled Titmouse

The Bridled Titmouse, Baeolophus wollweberi, is a diminutive and charming songbird, a member of the tit family Paridae. This species exhibits a distinctive appearance, characterized by its small stature, measuring between 11.5 to 12.7 cm in length. It possesses a notable crest and a predominantly gray plumage. The face is adorned with a striking black and white pattern, complemented by a black bib. The crest itself is edged with black, and the underparts of the bird may vary from white to gray.

Identification Tips

When endeavoring to identify the Bridled Titmouse, look for its black and white patterned face and the black-bordered crest. The bird's small size and active behavior are also key identification features. Its white, speckled, or reddish-brown eggs can be a clue if you happen to spot a nest.

Habitat

The Bridled Titmouse favors oak or oak-juniper mixed woodlands, particularly those that are adjacent to riparian zones within mountainous regions. These habitats provide the ideal environment for the species to thrive.

Distribution

This bird can be found in the Mogollon Plateau and White Mountains of Arizona, extending to the extreme southwestern parts of New Mexico. Its range continues down through the Madrean sky islands region of the eastern Sonora Desert in the United States and reaches into southern Mexico.

Behaviour

The Bridled Titmouse is a permanent resident of its range and may form small mixed flocks during the winter months. It is an active forager, often seen flitting about branches and occasionally venturing to the ground in search of food.

Song & calls

The vocalizations of the Bridled Titmouse are typically described as a whistled "pidi-pidi-pidi-pidi." This species is known to produce a variety of sounds, all sharing a similar tonal quality.

Breeding

Nesting occurs in tree cavities, which may be natural or former woodpecker nests, situated 4 to 28 feet above the ground. The nests are lined with soft materials such as cottonwood down, stems, leaves, and grass, creating a comfortable environment for the eggs and chicks.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the Bridled Titmouse is primarily composed of insects, with caterpillars being a favored choice. However, it also consumes seeds, nuts, and berries. This bird exhibits the behavior of storing food for later consumption.

Conservation status

The Bridled Titmouse is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List, indicating that the species does not face any immediate threat of extinction.