Chickadee Species Guide: How to Identify These Friendly Backyard Birds
• species
Guide to Chickadee Species
Chickadees are among the most cheerful and friendly backyard birds, known for their distinctive calls and acrobatic feeding style.
Common Species
Black-capped Chickadee
- Most widespread
- Black cap and bib
- White cheeks
- Gray back and wings
Carolina Chickadee
- Southern species
- Similar appearance
- Smaller size
- Different call pattern
Mountain Chickadee
- Western species
- White eyebrow
- Higher elevation habitat
- Distinct call
Behavior Patterns
- Social flocking
- Food caching
- Year-round residents
- Complex vocalizations
Feeding Preferences
- Black oil sunflower seeds
- Suet
- Insects
- Tree buds