Titmice & Chickadees - Mésanges

The tits, chickadees, and titmice constitute a large family of small passerine birds which occur mainly in the Northern Hemisphere and Africa. 

Members of this family are commonly referred to as "tits" throughout much of the English speaking world, but North American species are called either "chickadees" (derived from their distinctive "chick-a dee dee dee" alarm call) or "titmice". 

These birds are mainly small, stocky, woodland species with short, stout bills. Some have crests. They are adaptable birds, with a mixed diet including seeds and insects. Many species live around human habitation and come readily to bird feeders for nuts or seed, and learn to take other foods.

Did you know ??   

A group of chickadees is called a "banditry" of chickadees, referring to the mask-like appearance of the bird.