Black-crested Titmouse illustration
Birdsong field guide

Black-crested Titmouse

Baeolophus atricristatus

A small, lively songbird of the Paridae family, easily identified by its prominent, jet-black crest and pale gray plumage. It is a southern relative of the Tufted Titmouse, known for its bold personality and active foraging behavior.

What it sounds like

A series of clear, whistled 'peter-peter-peter' notes, generally faster and higher-pitched than those of the Tufted Titmouse.

Reference call, compare with what you heard
0:00 / 0:18
Rec. David Tattersley · United StatesCC BY-NC-SAXeno-canto

Field notes

  • It was considered a subspecies of the Tufted Titmouse until 2002, when it was officially recognized as a distinct species.
  • In narrow zones of central Texas where their ranges overlap, it hybridizes with the Tufted Titmouse, producing offspring with gray-brown crests.
  • These birds are known to pluck hair for their nests directly from live mammals, including dogs, squirrels, and even humans.
  • They are non-migratory residents that maintain and defend their territories throughout the winter months.
  • Their diet is highly opportunistic, consisting of insects, spiders, acorns, and seeds, which they often cache for later consumption.
Habitat
Oak-juniper woodlands, river timber, mesquite brushlands, and suburban gardens.
Range
Primarily southern Texas, extending into southwestern Oklahoma and northeastern Mexico.

Similar & commonly confused birds

Heard a Black-crested Titmouse?

Open Birdsong, tap record, and identify the bird singing near you in seconds — then collect it in your field journal.

Identify a bird by its song