Carp's tit or Carp's black tit, is a species of bird in the family Paridae. Some authors consider it a subspecies of the black tit. It is found throughout the Namibian savanna woodlands and the southern Angolan mopane woodlands.
Region
Southwestern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs primarily in the Namibian savanna woodlands and into southern Angola, with a strong association to mopane (Colophospermum mopane) and mixed Acacia–Commiphora woodland. It favors open, arid to semi-arid landscapes with scattered mature trees that provide foraging surfaces and nesting cavities. Birds are frequently seen along dry river courses, farm woodlots, and edges of thorn scrub. It forages from low branches to the mid-canopy, often methodically inspecting bark, leaves, and dead wood.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1600 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Carp's tit is a small African tit of dry savanna and mopane woodlands in Namibia and southern Angola. It is sometimes treated as a subspecies of the black tit but is usually recognized as a distinct species. Like other tits, it nests in tree cavities and often investigates holes and cracks while foraging. Outside the breeding season it joins small, lively parties that move quickly through open woodland.
Carp's tit in Namibia
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief undulations
Social Behavior
Typically found in pairs during the breeding season and in small family parties or loose flocks at other times. It nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes and will use dead stubs and fence posts when available. Pairs maintain small territories but may join mixed-species foraging groups in the non-breeding season.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, whistled notes given in short series, interspersed with dry, scolding chatters. Calls include sharp tsee and tchik notes used to keep contact while moving through trees.
