African Blue Tit

The African blue tit, a diminutive and vibrant bird, measures between 11 to 12 centimeters in length. It boasts a striking plumage with a white forehead and supercilium that extends to the center of the nape, while the crown is a deep glossy blue, transitioning to a blackish hue on the neck. The dorsal side is similarly blue, contrasting with a vivid yellow on the ventral side, creating a delightful spectacle for any observer.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the African blue tit, look for its small size and sharp bill. The white forehead and supercilium, along with the deep blue crown, are distinctive. The blue dorsal and yellow ventral body are also key characteristics to distinguish it from similar species.

Habitat

The African blue tit is partial to temperate forests, where it can be found at various elevations. On the islands of Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, it shows a preference for lowland areas, while on Tenerife and Gran Canaria, it is more commonly found in montane forests.

Distribution

This species is native to northern Africa, Pantelleria in Italy, and the Canary Islands in Spain. It is particularly common on the islands of Tenerife and Gran Canaria, though it is less abundant on Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.

Behaviour

The African blue tit is a resident bird, meaning that juveniles remain at their birthplace and do not disperse after fledging. Its breeding season varies with elevation, with earlier breeding occurring at lower levels.

Song & Calls

The African blue tit's vocalizations consist of a variable repetition of one or two notes, a delightful sound that adds to the charm of its natural environment.

Breeding

Breeding season for the African blue tit spans from February to July, with a possible additional period from October to January. Egg-laying is timed with longer photoperiods and the peak availability of caterpillars, which are crucial for feeding the young. Extra-pair mating is also observed, synchronizing with the caterpillar density.

Similar Species

While similar to the Eurasian blue tit, the African blue tit can be differentiated by its unique coloration and distribution.

Diet and Feeding

The African blue tit's diet primarily consists of a variety of caterpillars, similar to that of its Eurasian counterpart.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the African blue tit as Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival.