The oak titmouse is a passerine bird in the tit family Paridae. The American Ornithologists' Union split the plain titmouse into the oak titmouse and the juniper titmouse in 1996, due to distinct differences in song, preferred habitat, and genetic makeup.
Region
Western North America
Typical Environment
Primarily found in California and into northern Baja California, the oak titmouse favors oak-dominated woodlands, mixed chaparral, and riparian corridors with mature trees. It is most common in live oak, valley oak, and blue oak habitats, including foothills and lower montane slopes. It uses natural cavities and old woodpecker holes for nesting and will also occupy nest boxes. In suburban edges with suitable trees and feeders, it may be a regular visitor.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The oak titmouse is a small, crested songbird of California’s oak woodlands, split from the plain titmouse in 1996 based on song, habitat, and genetics. It is a year-round resident that readily uses nest boxes and often lines nests with animal hair. Like many tits, it caches seeds and insects in bark crevices for later use. Its plain appearance is offset by a jaunty crest and an energetic, inquisitive demeanor.
Oak Titmouse, Auburn, California
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories year-round. Monogamous pairs nest in cavities and may reuse sites across years. They cache food and show agile gleaning behavior while foraging among twigs and bark.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a rapid series of burry, scratchy notes delivered in repetitive phrases. Calls include sharp chips and scolds, often given while foraging in the canopy.
