Indian Black Lored Tit

About

The Indian Black Lored Tit (Machlolophus xanthogenys aplonotus) is a subspecies of the Black-lored Tit, a small passerine bird belonging to the tit family Paridae. It is characterized by its distinctive black crest, yellow underparts, and black loral stripe. This subspecies is endemic to the Indian subcontinent and is a common resident in its preferred habitats.

Size & lifespan

Length

13-14 cm

Wingspan

20-22 cm

Weight

10-15 g

Lifespan

3-5 years (estimated in the wild)

Diet

Insectivore, occasionally supplemented with seeds, berries, and nectar

Physical characteristics

Plumage

Adults have a prominent black crest, a black loral stripe extending from the beak to behind the eye, and a black throat and upper breast. The cheeks and ear-coverts are bright yellow. The upperparts are olive-green, and the underparts are bright yellow with a broad black central stripe running from the throat to the vent. The wings are dark with two prominent white wing-bars, and the tail is dark with white outer tail feathers.

Beak shape

Small, conical, and sharp, typically black or dark grey.

Eye color

Dark brown.

Leg color

Dark grey to blackish.

Distinguishing features

The combination of a black crest, bright yellow underparts with a broad black central stripe, and two white wing-bars are key distinguishing features. The black loral stripe is also characteristic.

Juvenile appearance

Juveniles are duller overall, with a less intense yellow on the underparts and a less defined black central stripe. The crest may be shorter and less prominent, and the black markings are often tinged brownish.

Seasonal changes

No significant seasonal changes in plumage are observed. They maintain their characteristic coloration year-round.

Sexual dimorphism

Males and females are generally similar in plumage, though the black central stripe on the underparts may be slightly broader and more intense in males. The crest might also appear slightly more prominent in males.

How to identify

1. 1

   Crest

   Look for the prominent, pointed black crest on the head, a key identifier for this species.

2. 2

   Head Pattern

   Note the black loral stripe (from beak to eye), bright yellow cheeks, and black throat/upper breast contrasting with the black crest.

3. 3

   Underparts

   Observe the bright yellow underparts with a broad, distinct black stripe running down the center from the throat to the vent.

4. 4

   Upperparts

   The back and nape are olive-green, providing a contrast to the head and underparts.

5. 5

   Wing-bars

   Two clear white wing-bars on dark wings are consistently present and aid in identification.

6. 6

   Behavior

   Watch for its active, acrobatic foraging style, often hanging upside down, and its tendency to join mixed-species flocks.

7. 7

   Vocalization

   Listen for its loud, clear, and often repetitive 'wit-chi-wit-chi-wit' song or sharp 'chick' calls.

Habitat & range

Biomes

Forests, woodlands, scrublands, gardens, and orchards.

Geographic range

Indian subcontinent, primarily peninsular India. This subspecies (aplonotus) is found across much of peninsular India, south of the Himalayas.

Elevation range

Typically found from plains up to 2,000 meters (6,500 feet) in elevation, though occasionally higher.

Preferred environments

Deciduous and evergreen forests, open woodlands, groves, well-wooded gardens, and plantations. They show a preference for areas with mature trees and a good understory.

Behavior

Activity time

Diurnal.

Feeding habits

Primarily insectivorous, foraging actively among foliage and bark for insects, larvae, and spiders. They often hang upside down to inspect leaves and crevices. They may also consume small fruits, berries, and nectar, especially during non-breeding seasons.

Social behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family parties. Outside the breeding season, they often join mixed-species foraging flocks, particularly with other tits and small insectivorous birds.

Flight pattern

Undulating flight, typical of tits, with rapid wing beats interspersed with short glides. Agile and acrobatic when foraging.

Migration pattern

Resident and largely sedentary throughout its range. No significant migratory movements are observed.

Territoriality

Pairs are territorial during the breeding season, defending their nesting site and immediate foraging area. Outside breeding, territoriality is less pronounced.

Breeding & reproduction

Breeding season

Typically from March to June, varying slightly with local conditions and rainfall.

Nesting habits

Nests are usually placed in tree holes, crevices in walls, or sometimes in old woodpecker holes. The nest is a cup-shaped structure made of moss, grass, hair, and feathers, often lined with softer materials.

Clutch size

4-7 eggs.

Egg description

Eggs are white or creamy white, sparsely speckled or spotted with reddish-brown or purplish-grey, particularly at the broader end. They are typically oval-shaped.

Incubation period

Approximately 12-14 days, primarily by the female.

Fledging period

Chicks fledge around 16-18 days after hatching.

Parental care

Both parents participate in feeding the young, though the female does most of the incubation. After fledging, the young are fed by both parents for several weeks.

Where to find

Field tips

1. Look up. They often forage in the canopy and mid-story of trees, so scan the branches carefully.
2. Listen for calls. Their distinctive calls and songs are often the first indication of their presence. Learn their vocalizations.
3. Check mixed flocks. Outside the breeding season, they frequently join mixed-species foraging flocks, so if you find one, others might be nearby.
4. Observe foraging behavior. Their active, acrobatic foraging, including hanging upside down, is a good behavioral clue.

Similar species

Quick facts

Crested:

Yes, has a prominent black crest.

Underparts:

Bright yellow with a broad black central stripe.

Habitat:

Forests, woodlands, gardens across peninsular India.

Diet:

Mainly insects.

Social:

Pairs or small flocks, often in mixed-species groups.

Fun facts

• The genus name 'Machlolophus' is derived from Greek, meaning 'large crest', referring to its prominent head crest.
• Despite its small size, it has a surprisingly loud and far-carrying song, especially during the breeding season.
• Like many tits, it is highly agile and can perform acrobatic maneuvers while foraging for insects among leaves and bark.
• The subspecies 'aplonotus' specifically refers to the Indian population, distinguishing it from its Himalayan relatives.

Scientific classification

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Aves

Order

Passeriformes

Family

Paridae

Genus

Machlolophus

Species

Machlolophus xanthogenys

Explore the Indian Black Lored Tit