A small passerine bird in the tit family Paridae, endemic to temperate and boreal forests of Europe and parts of Asia, known for its distinctive black cap and white cheeks.
Image Gallery
ADSENSE SLOT
Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed woodlands, particularly areas with willow, birch, and alder trees, preferring moist forest edges, wetlands, and forest-stream interfaces at elevations between 0-1,500 meters.
Ecological Role
Key seed disperser and insect population controller; plays crucial role in forest ecosystem nutrient cycling and maintaining forest biodiversity through seed predation and insect consumption.
Morphology
SKIN COATDense, fluffy grayish-brown plumage with white underparts, providing excellent insulation in cold environments
LIMBS WINGSShort, strong legs for perching; rounded wings enabling agile flight through dense forest vegetation
HEAD SENSORYLarge head relative to body size, black cap, white cheeks, short conical beak adapted for insect foraging
BODY STRUCTURESmall bird, approximately 11.5-12.5 cm in length, weighing 10-12 grams, compact and round body shape
