Bushtits

Bushtits, or long-tailed tits, belonging to the family Aegithalidae, are small, energetic passerine birds notable for their elongated tails in proportion to their bodies. With 13 species across three genera, the majority inhabit forest-edge and understory habitats in Eurasia, while one species is native to western North America. These birds, measuring a modest 9-14 cm in length and weighing 4.5-9 g, typically display dull grey or brown feathers, with some having white, pinkish or even violet coloration, and the unique crested tit-warbler boasts a crest. Bushtits are largely resident birds, although some species exhibit seasonal altitudinal movements. Their diet consists mainly of insects and spiders, and while foraging, they exhibit impressive agility, often hanging upside down on branches. These birds are predominantly monogamous and sometimes show cooperative breeding, with helpers assisting in raising the young. Their nests, intricately woven from cobwebs and lichen and lined with feathers, are typically well-hidden in thick foliage, except for the American bushtit's more exposed nest. Bushtit flocks can range from a few individuals to over 50, and though they mainly rely on contact calls for communication, their songs are usually quiet or non-existent. The family Aegithalidae was introduced in 1850 and consists of non-migratory, forest-dwelling birds, with some species' taxonomic status and behavior still under study for better understanding.