What does the Black-capped Chickadee eat?

The Black-capped Chickadee's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Omnivore (primarily insects and spiders in summer, seeds and berries in winter)

How it forages

Forages actively on tree branches, twigs, and bark, gleaning insects, spiders, and their eggs. They also readily consume seeds, berries, and suet, especially in winter. Known for caching food items in various locations for later retrieval, demonstrating remarkable memory.

When it feeds

Diurnal, active from dawn to dusk.

Explore the Black-capped Chickadee