Machlolophus xanthogenys
The Himalayan Black-lored Tit (Machlolophus xanthogenys) is a vibrant and distinctive passerine bird belonging to the tit family Paridae, easily recognized by its prominent black crest and striking yellow and black plumage. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length and weighing around 10-15 grams, this species exhibits a bright yellow underside contrasting with a glossy black bib and a broad black stripe extending from the base of the bill through the eye. Its most defining ...
Found in subtropical and temperate broadleaf and coniferous forests, often favoring oak and rhododendron, as well as open woodlands, orchards, and sometimes gardens, typically at elevations between 1,000 and 3,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on caterpillars, beetles, ants, and spiders, supplemented by seeds, berries, and nectar, often acquired through active gleaning and acrobatic maneuvers.
This diurnal species is an active and acrobatic forager, often seen gleaning insects and spiders from foliage and bark, frequently hanging upside down to access prey; outside the breeding season, they commonly join mixed-species foraging flocks. Males establish and vigorously defend breeding terr...
The Himalayan Black-lored Tit is a resident species, with its distribution centered across the Himalayan mountain range. Its breeding and year-round range extends from northern Pakistan eastward through the Indian Himalayas, encompassing regions such as Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sik...
Least Concern
- The Himalayan Black-lored Tit was historically grouped with other tits in the large genus *Parus* before being reclassified into *Machlolophus* in 2013, highlighting its distinct evolutionary lineage. - Its name 'Black-lored' refers to the prominent black stripe between its eye and bill, a key ...