Azure Tit

The azure tit, Cyanistes cyanus, is a small passerine bird belonging to the tit family, Paridae. This charming bird measures approximately 12–13 cm (4.7–5.1 in) in length, presenting a striking plumage. The head, tail corners, wing bars, and underparts are a crisp white, while the upperparts boast a delightful shade of blue. A distinctive dark line runs through its eye, adding to its unique appearance.

Identification Tips

When observing the azure tit, look for its unmistakable white head and underparts contrasted with blue upperparts. The dark line through the eye is a key feature to distinguish it from similar species. Pay attention to the white tail corners and wing bars, which are also indicative of this species.

Habitat

The azure tit is found in a variety of woodland habitats, including temperate and subarctic deciduous or mixed forests. It also frequents scrublands and marshes, where it can find suitable nesting sites and food sources.

Distribution

This species is a widespread and common resident breeder across Russia, Central Asia, northwest China, Manchuria, and Pakistan. It is generally sedentary, with most birds not engaging in migration.

Behaviour

The azure tit is known to be a close sitter, remaining steadfast on its nest and displaying defensive behaviors such as hissing and biting when disturbed. It nests in tree holes, where it lays approximately 10 eggs.

Song & calls

The vocalizations of the azure tit are reminiscent of its relative, the blue tit. Its calls include a sharp "dee, dee, dee" or a scolding "churr." The song is a rhythmic "tsi-tsi-tshurr-tsi-tsi-tshurr," which has been described as intermediate between the blue tit and the crested tit.

Breeding

During the breeding season, the azure tit selects tree holes as nesting sites. The female lays a clutch of around 10 eggs, and both parents are involved in rearing the young.

Similar Species

The azure tit is the eastern counterpart of the common Eurasian blue tit and may hybridize with it in areas where their ranges overlap. The hybrid offspring, known as Pleske's tit, usually show a blue crown, contrasting with the white crown of the pure azure tit.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the azure tit primarily consists of insects, seeds, small invertebrates, bug larvae, and eggs. It forages actively in its woodland habitat, gleaning food from trees and shrubs.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the azure tit as Least Concern, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival on a global scale.