The red-throated tit is a species of bird in the family Paridae. It is found in Kenya and Tanzania, where its natural habitat is dry savanna.
Region
East Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs patchily across dry savanna and thorn-scrub landscapes of Kenya and northern Tanzania. It favors open woodlands dominated by acacia and commiphora, with scattered trees and shrubs over grassy understory. Birds use tree cavities for nesting and roosting and forage from the mid-canopy down into lower shrubs. It tolerates lightly grazed rangelands but avoids dense forests and very open treeless plains.
Altitude Range
500–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This East African tit favors dry Acacia-Commiphora savannas and often forages acrobatically among thorny branches. It nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker and barbet holes, lining them with soft plant material. Small family groups frequently join mixed-species flocks, which helps with predator detection while foraging.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family parties that move quickly through acacia canopies. During the breeding season it forms monogamous pairs and nests in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes lined with soft fibers. Outside breeding, it often joins mixed-species foraging flocks for safety and efficiency.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Calls are sharp, high-pitched twitters and scolding chatter typical of tits. The song is a simple series of thin whistles and trills, repeated from exposed perches within acacia trees.