The chestnut-bellied tit is a small passerine bird in the tit family Paridae that is endemic to Taiwan.
Region
East Asia
Typical Environment
This species is confined to Taiwan, where it occupies evergreen broadleaf and mixed montane forests, forest edges, and well-wooded parks and gardens. It forages from the lower understory to the high canopy, often among oaks and other broadleaf trees. It tolerates secondary growth and fragmented habitats better than many forest specialists. Outside the breeding season it commonly moves through the landscape in mixed-species flocks.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Endemic to Taiwan, the chestnut-bellied tit is an agile canopy forager often seen hanging acrobatically while gleaning food. It readily uses natural cavities and nest boxes for breeding. Like many tits, it caches seeds such as acorns for later consumption. It is vocal and inquisitive, frequently joining mixed-species flocks outside the breeding season.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Breeds in pairs and nests in tree cavities or nest boxes, lining them with soft materials. Outside the breeding season it forms small flocks and frequently joins mixed-species parties. Pairs can be territorial during nesting but are tolerant in winter foraging groups.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of clear whistles, chatter, and nasal scolds, often delivered in short sequences. Calls include sharp scolding notes when alarmed and softer contact notes within flocks.
Plumage
Compact tit with a black hood and throat, contrasting white cheek patches, and rich chestnut underparts. Upperparts are slate-grey to bluish-grey with warmer rufous tones on the flanks. Feathers are smooth and neatly contoured, giving a crisp, clean appearance.
Diet
An opportunistic omnivore that takes insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates, especially during the breeding season. It also eats seeds, nuts, and fruits, notably acorns which it may cache. Foraging involves gleaning from leaves, twigs, and bark, and occasionally probing into crevices.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in wooded habitats from understory to canopy, favoring oak-rich broadleaf forests and edges. It also exploits gardens and park trees where food is abundant and cover is available.
