The black-crested titmouse or Mexican titmouse, is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. Once considered a subspecies of the tufted titmouse, it was recognized as a separate species in 2002. It is native to southern Texas, Oklahoma, and east-central Mexico. Vagrants have been seen as far north and east as St. Louis, Missouri.
Region
South-central United States and east-central Mexico
Typical Environment
Found from south-central Texas north to southern Oklahoma and south through northeastern and east-central Mexico (e.g., Coahuila, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosí). It favors oak-juniper woodlands, mesquite shrublands, riparian corridors, and mixed thornscrub. It readily adapts to semi-urban areas with mature trees, including parks and large yards. Local movements may occur in response to food availability, but it is generally non-migratory.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the Mexican titmouse, it was split from the tufted titmouse as a distinct species in 2002. Its tall, black crest and pale face make it easy to tell from its relatives. It hybridizes with the tufted titmouse in a contact zone in central Texas. A frequent visitor to backyard feeders, it often caches seeds for later.
Black-crested titmouse in Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forages in pairs or small family groups and joins mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season. Monogamous pairs defend territories during breeding. Nests in natural cavities, old woodpecker holes, or nest boxes, lining the nest with soft materials such as moss, plant fibers, and animal hair.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes reminiscent of peter-peter-peter, often repeated. Also gives sharp scolding calls and raspy chatter during foraging and when alarmed.
