ID Keys: Grayish overall, slightly lighter on
underparts, small crest, very short stubby bill
The
JuniperTitmouse and the Oak Titmouse
used to be considered a single species, the "Plain Titmouse". The two
are very similar in appearance, but are separated by geographic range and
preferred habitat. The Juniper Titmouse is in drier juniper habitats of the inland southwestern
United States. The Oak Titmouse is found in warm, dry oak habitats,
near the coast or around the Central Valley of California. In
appearance, the two are very similar. However, the Juniper Titmouse is
typically "cooler" in color, lacking the brownish overtones to the grayish
plumage that the Oak Titmouse has.
Habitat
Found in open juniper woodlands,
particularly during the breeding season. May utilize other nearby
woodland habitats outside of the breeding season.
Diet
Feeds on insects, nuts, seeds, and berries.
Feeds heavily on the seeds of pinyon juniper.
Behavior
Forages by moving actively through the
woodland foliage, hopping from branch to branch and actively searching for
insects.
Nesting
The Juniper Titmouse nests in cavities in
trees, using either natural cavities or old woodpecker holes. The nest
is lined with softer material such as grasses, feathers, or animal hair.
The female lays between 5 and 8 eggs, and she alone incubates them.
When the eggs hatch, both parents help to raise the young. The young
leave the nest after about 18 days.
Song
The song of a Juniper Titmouse is a series
of rapid whistled phrases, with phrases often given in groups of three.
Migration
Considered a permanent resident
throughout its normal range.
