The white-cheeked bushtit, also known as the white-cheeked tit, is a species of bird in the family Aegithalidae. It is found in Afghanistan, India, and Pakistan.
Region
Western Himalayas and Hindu Kush
Typical Environment
Occurs from northeastern Afghanistan through northern Pakistan into northwestern India (Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh). It favors montane temperate forests, including coniferous stands of pine, fir, and spruce, as well as mixed oak and rhododendron. It often uses forest edges, clearings, and wooded ravines where undergrowth is present. Birds move through mid- to upper-canopy but also forage in shrubs.
Altitude Range
1500–3600 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The white-cheeked bushtit (also called the white-cheeked tit) is a small, highly active member of the long-tailed tit family Aegithalidae. It forms noisy, agile parties that often join mixed-species flocks in montane forests. Like its relatives, it builds an intricate, domed nest of moss, lichens, and spider silk. It is generally unobtrusive but can be located by its thin, high-pitched calls as it forages through conifers and broadleaf trees.
An image of aegithalos leucogenys by Gould
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually seen in small family groups or parties that roam together through forest strata, frequently joining mixed-species flocks. Pairs build elaborate domed nests woven from moss, lichens, and spider silk, lined with feathers. Outside the breeding season it is strongly gregarious and maintains contact with constant calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice is thin, high-pitched, and sibilant, with contact notes given in rapid series as flocks move. Song consists of soft, tinkling trills and short phrases, often interspersed with sharp tsit calls.
