Owston's tit is a small passerine bird in the tit family Paridae that is endemic to the southern Izu Islands south of Japan, occurring only on the islands of Miyakejima, Mikurajima and Hachijojima.
Region
Southern Izu Islands, Japan
Typical Environment
Occurs in evergreen broadleaf forests, secondary woodlands, and coastal scrub across Miyakejima, Mikurajima, and Hachijojima. It also visits plantations, wooded gardens, and shelterbelts where mature trees provide cavities. The species forages from understory to canopy, frequently along forest edges and in mixed stands. Use of nest boxes has helped it persist in altered habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Named after the British naturalist Alan Owston, this tit is confined to the southern Izu Islands of Japan. It readily uses natural cavities and nest boxes for breeding. As an island specialist, it is sensitive to habitat change and volcanic disturbances, particularly on Miyakejima.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically forms pairs in the breeding season and small family groups or loose flocks outside it. Nests in natural tree cavities or nest boxes, lining them with plant fibers and fur. Generally monogamous, with both parents feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of clear whistles interspersed with buzzy notes and scolding calls. Contact calls are sharp and nasal, while the song can include repeated, rhythmic phrases delivered from prominent perches.
Plumage
Compact tit with a black hood and throat, white cheek patches, blue‑gray upperparts, and rich rufous to chestnut underparts. Wings and tail are slate to blue‑gray with subtle edging. Islands forms tend to look slightly darker and more subdued than mainland relatives.
Diet
Feeds on insects, spiders, and other small invertebrates gleaned from foliage and bark, especially during the breeding season. In the non‑breeding period it expands to seeds, nuts, and fruits, including acorns where available. It may hammer open hard seeds and occasionally caches food for later use.
Preferred Environment
Forages in wooded habitats with a mix of mature trees and understory, especially along edges and in semi-open forest. Readily visits gardens and shrubby areas when trees provide cover and feeding opportunities.
