American Bushtit
Psaltriparus minimus · Tit-warblers, Bushtits, and Long-tailed Tit
The American Bushtit is a remarkably small and social songbird, often seen in active flocks moving through western North America. These plump, long-tailed birds are the only species of their family (Aegithalidae) found in the Americas. They are known for their constant movement and soft vocalizations as they forage.
Explore the full field guideResidentTiny sizeTwittering callsInsectivorous
20 calls·first heard Jun 29·last 2d ago
When it's heardpeak 7a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Tiny, plain gray-brown bird with a plump body, large head, short bill, and a relatively long tail.
- Adult males typically have dark eyes, while adult females have pale yellow or white eyes.
- Plumage varies regionally; coastal birds often have a brown crown, while inland birds may have tan cheeks or a brownish mask. Some in Mexico and Central America have black cheeks.
- Flies weakly, often in a straggling single file when moving between trees.