Machlolophus spilonotus
The Yellow-cheeked Tit (Machlolophus spilonotus) is a strikingly vibrant songbird, instantly recognizable by its bold yellow and black plumage and prominent crest. Measuring approximately 13-14 cm in length with a weight typically around 12-18 grams, it showcases a bright yellow face framed by a broad black post-ocular stripe that extends into a black neck collar. A distinctive erect black crest, often tipped with yellow or white, and a broad black central stripe running from the chin down th...
This species primarily inhabits subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, open woodlands, scrub, and sometimes even gardens or plantations. It is typically found at elevations ranging from low foothills up to around 2,500-3,000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, their diet consists mainly of small insects and spiders, supplemented with seeds, berries, and fruits, especially during colder months. They forage actively by gleaning from foliage and bark, and occasionally sallying for airborne prey.
Yellow-cheeked Tits are diurnal and highly active, spending their days meticulously foraging through the canopy and understory. Their foraging strategy involves gleaning insects and spiders from leaves and bark, probing crevices, and occasionally sallying out to catch flying insects. During the b...
The Yellow-cheeked Tit boasts a broad distribution across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, primarily resident throughout its range. It is found in the Himalayan foothills from northern Pakistan eastward through Nepal, Bhutan, Northeast India, and Bangladesh. Further eastward, its range...
Least Concern
- The Yellow-cheeked Tit's prominent black crest is a distinctive feature, making it stand out from many other tit species in its family, particularly within the Asian region. - It is a common and enthusiastic participant in mixed-species foraging flocks, especially outside the breeding season, m...