Parus cinereus
The Cinereous Tit (Parus cinereus) is a captivating, medium-sized songbird, typically measuring 13-16 cm in length with a weight ranging from 12-19 grams. Its plumage is characterized by a sleek grey back, pristine white underparts adorned with a prominent central black stripe, a glossy black cap, and a distinct black throat that contrasts sharply with large, clean white cheek patches. Identification is straightforward due to its primarily grey, black, and white coloration, lacking the green ...
Primarily inhabits open woodlands, deciduous and evergreen forests, forest edges, and cultivated areas like orchards and gardens. Found from lowlands up to elevations exceeding 4,000 meters in some mountainous regions.
Mainly insectivorous, consuming caterpillars, beetles, aphids, and other invertebrates. Supplements its diet with seeds, fruits, and nectar outside the breeding season, often caching food.
A highly diurnal bird, the Cinereous Tit forages actively from dawn to dusk, often roosting in tree cavities or dense foliage during the night. It is an agile and acrobatic gleaner, meticulously searching branches, leaves, and bark for insects, and will frequently hang upside down to access food....
The Cinereous Tit boasts an expansive distribution across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, extending into East Asia. It is resident throughout India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan. Its range continues through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Peninsular M...
Least Concern
- The Cinereous Tit was historically considered a subspecies of the Great Tit (Parus major) before genetic studies confirmed its distinct species status. - Its scientific name, 'cinereus,' is Latin for 'ash-colored,' perfectly describing its characteristic grey plumage. - This highly adaptable bi...