The Indian black-lored tit, Indian tit, or Indian yellow tit is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. The yellow-cheeked tit is probably its closest relative, and both may be related to the yellow tit. These three tits almost certainly form a distinct lineage as evidenced by morphology, and mtDNA cytochrome b sequence analysis. The subgenus name Macholophus may apply for them.
Region
Indian Subcontinent
Typical Environment
Found widely across India, from the Western Ghats and central India to parts of the Himalayan foothills, and locally into neighboring regions. Occupies open and semi-open forests, dry and moist deciduous woodland, scrub, plantations, and orchards. Frequently visits parks and gardens near villages and towns. Most common along forest edges and secondary growth where it can glean insects among foliage and bark.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This bright, crested tit is common in wooded habitats and even gardens across much of India. It often joins mixed-species flocks and forages acrobatically, hanging upside down to probe leaves and bark for insects. A cavity nester, it readily uses holes in trees and even walls, and may accept nest boxes. The distinctive black loral stripe and spiky crest help separate it from similar yellow-cheeked and yellow tits.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often travels in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Breeds in tree cavities or holes in walls, lining the nest with soft plant fibers and hair. Typical clutches are several eggs, and adults are attentive, bringing frequent insect prey to nestlings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, scolding chips and churrs, with rapid, metallic notes. The song is a series of clear, repeated whistles and trills delivered from exposed perches.
Plumage
Bright yellow underparts with a narrow black central belly stripe; olive-green upperparts; black head with a prominent spiky crest and a black loral line; wings dark with bold white patches and pale wingbars; tail dark with whitish edges.
Diet
Primarily takes insects and other arthropods such as caterpillars, beetles, and spiders, gleaned from foliage and bark. Also consumes seeds, small berries, and nectar, especially outside the breeding season. Will inspect flowers and sometimes visit human-provided food sources.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of open woodland, forest edges, orchards, and gardens. Frequently seen in secondary growth and along paths where foliage is accessible. Uses acrobatic maneuvers to probe twigs, leaves, and bark crevices.
