Taxonomy
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Birds
Order: Passeriformes
Family: Paridae
Genus: Periparus
Species: Periparus ater
Conservation Status of the Species in Portugal and Worldwide
Portugal
World
Features and
Habits
In terms of dimensions, it has a length between 11.5 cm and a wingspan between 17 and 21 cm. Regarding its characteristics, the most noticeable aspect is its black head, white cheeks, and a white linear mark on the nape. Similar to the great tit, however, it is smaller and its chest is light brown, unlike the green one. The chest also lacks a black stripe that runs down from the head.
It feeds on insects and their larvae in spring and summer, and on seeds during autumn and winter. It reproduces from April to June, making a nest in tree cavities, composed of moss, wool, fur, and feathers. The female lays between 5 and 11 eggs, which hatch in 13 to 16 days. After the chicks are born, both parents are responsible for feeding them for 16 to 22 days. After this time, the chicks are able to leave the nest, but continue to be fed for a few weeks.
Habitat and Distribution
It is a common resident bird (present throughout the year). It is visible north of the Tagus River, being rarer south of it. Its habitats are forested areas of resinous woodlands, other types of woodlands, and also urban parks. The places in the country where there are more sightings are the Minho estuary, the São Jacinto nature reserve, and the Serra da Estrela and Montejunto mountain ranges.
Places where I have photographed this species so far.
All Photographs Taken
