The yellow-browed tit is a species of bird in the family Paridae. It is placed in the monotypic genus Sylviparus. It is a small song bird that measures 9–10 cm long and weighs 5–9 g. It is the smallest member of its family. It has a small bill, short tail, strong legs, and greenish feathers.
Region
Eastern Himalayas to southern China and northern Mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occupies subtropical and temperate montane forests, especially evergreen broadleaf, oak–rhododendron, and mixed conifer–broadleaf stands. Favors mid to upper canopy where it actively gleans foliage and twigs. Also occurs along forest edges, secondary growth, and bamboo thickets near mature forest. Makes downslope movements into lower valleys during colder months.
Altitude Range
900–3200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The yellow-browed tit is the sole member of the genus Sylviparus and is the smallest tit in the family Paridae. It is a quick, warbler-like canopy gleaner with a conspicuous yellow eyebrow and a tiny bill. Typically resident, it makes local altitudinal movements in winter and often joins mixed-species flocks.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups and commonly joins mixed-species flocks with other small passerines. Nests in cavities such as tree holes or stumps, lining them with soft plant material. Both parents typically participate in feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
High, thin, warbler-like notes delivered in quick sequences; calls include soft tsee and see-see chips. Song is light and unobtrusive, often given from the canopy while foraging.
Plumage
Olive-green upperparts with paler yellow-washed underparts, a grayish head, and a bold yellow eyebrow; small bill, short tail, and faint pale wing bars.
Diet
Primarily small insects and other arthropods, including caterpillars, beetles, and spiders. Gleans prey from leaves, buds, and twigs, occasionally hover-gleaning and hanging upside down to reach concealed items. May take a little plant material such as tiny seeds or buds when insects are scarce.
Preferred Environment
Forages mostly in the mid to upper canopy of montane evergreen and mixed forests. Frequently uses forest edges, clearings, and bamboo tangles adjacent to mature forest, especially in the non-breeding season.
