White-naped Tit

The White-naped Tit, known scientifically as Machlolophus nuchalis, presents a striking black and white plumage. Its name, derived from the Latin 'nuchalis', refers to the distinctive white patch on the nape that contrasts sharply with its black head and back. This passerine bird is a unique member of the tit family, Paridae, and is endemic to India.

Identification Tips

This species stands out with its pied appearance, lacking the grey wing coverts seen in the cinereous tit. The cheeks, ear-coverts, and a nape patch are white, while the crown, sides of the head, chin, throat, and a ventral band are black. The wings feature white on the outer primaries and the base of the secondaries, with the last tertiaries being completely white. The two outer tail feathers are white, with the next having the outer web white and the remaining black. The white flanks may show a hint of yellow.

Habitat

The White-naped Tit inhabits dry thorn scrub forests, a habitat that is increasingly under threat.

Distribution

This bird is found in two disjunct populations within India: one in the western part of the country and the other in the south. Its range includes areas of Kutch, extending into parts of Rajasthan and Haryana, with sightings also reported from the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh and the Biligirirangan Hills.

Behaviour

The White-naped Tit is known for its shy demeanor and low-density populations. It is territorial, with pairs defending their foraging grounds. These birds exhibit a distinctive head movement before entering their roosts, which they may use for several years. They are diurnal, foraging during the day and roosting at night.

Song & Calls

The call of the White-naped Tit is a musical whistle, described as "tee-whi-whi" or "see pit-pit-pit-pit," which is often the best way to detect these elusive birds.

Breeding

Breeding occurs during the monsoon season, from May to August. The White-naped Tit nests in tree cavities, including those made by woodpeckers and barbets. While the clutch size is not well documented, observations suggest that both parents are involved in chick rearing.

Similar Species

The White-naped Tit can be confused with the partly sympatric cinereous tit, but the absence of grey on the wings and back helps distinguish it.

Diet and Feeding

Its diet consists of insects, berries, and occasionally nectar. The birds have been observed feeding on the berries of Salvadora oleoides and obtaining nectar from Capparis aphylla flowers.

Conservation Status

The White-naped Tit is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. Its populations have declined rapidly due to habitat degradation, particularly the loss of old branches with potential nest holes, which are collected for firewood. The preservation of its thorn scrub forest habitat is critical for the survival of this species.