The southern black tit or simply black tit is a species of bird in the tit family Paridae, which is native to woodland habitats in southern Africa.
Region
Southern Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs from northeastern South Africa and Eswatini through southern Mozambique and much of Zimbabwe, extending into northern Botswana. Favours dry to semi-arid woodland, especially acacia/combretum savanna, mopane woodland, and mixed riverine thickets. It also uses edges of miombo and broadleaf woodland mosaics where trees provide foraging substrates and nest cavities. The species adapts to lightly wooded farmlands and larger suburban gardens with mature trees.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The southern black tit is a small, energetic member of the tit family Paridae, native to southern African woodlands and savannas. It is often confused with the White-winged Black Tit, but lacks that species’ bold white wing patch. Pairs nest in natural cavities or old woodpecker holes and readily join mixed-species foraging flocks. Its scolding calls often reveal its presence in dense thornveld.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks while foraging. Nests in tree cavities or old woodpecker holes, lining them with soft plant fibers and hair. Territorial during breeding but tolerant of other small insectivores when food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, scolding calls and high-pitched tsee-tsee notes. Song is a series of metallic, repeated whistles interspersed with churring or buzzing phrases.
Plumage
Mostly uniform glossy black with subtle pale edging on some wing feathers; overall sleek appearance.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, spiders, and larvae gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It probes crevices and underside of branches, sometimes hanging upside down to reach prey. Occasional small seeds or nectar may be taken when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid to upper canopy of acacia, mopane, and mixed woodland trees, and along woodland edges. Also visits wooded gardens and riparian thickets where mature trees provide both food and cover.
