The acacia tit, also known as the Somali tit and northern grey tit, is a species of bird in the family Paridae. It is native to north eastern Africa where it occurs in dry acacia habitat.
Region
Horn of Africa and northern East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily from eastern Ethiopia and Somalia south into northeastern Kenya, following belts of dry acacia and thorn scrub. Prefers open to semi-open Acacia-Commiphora bushland, dry savanna edges, and arid riverine thickets. It favors areas with scattered mature thorn trees that provide cavities for nesting. Frequently seen near traditional pastoral landscapes where thorn woodland persists.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Somali tit or northern grey tit, this small Paridae specializes in dry Acacia-Commiphora habitats. It nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker/barbet holes in thorn trees, lining the nest with plant fibers and hair. Often inquisitive, it joins mixed-species foraging parties and can be detected by its sharp, scolding calls.
Melaniparus thruppi
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with bounding hops between trees
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family parties, and commonly joins mixed-species flocks in thorn woodland. Nests in tree cavities, often in dead acacia limbs, using soft plant fibers and hair for lining. Both parents feed the young and defend the nest with sharp scolding calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of high, thin, tit-like see-see and tsee-tsee notes, often delivered in short bursts. Scolding calls are sharper, buzzy chips used when alarmed or during territorial encounters.
