Feeder match

The best feeder for black-crested titmice

Replaces Tufted Titmouse in central and south Texas; the two hybridize where they meet.

Tits and chickadees (Paridae)Black-crested TitmouseBaeolophus atricristatus

Feeder styles that work

First choice
Tube feeder with short perches

Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.

Also works
Suet cage or tail-prop suet feeder

High-fat food in winter; a tail prop suits woodpeckers.

What to fill it with

Sizing the feeder to the bird

The Black-crested Titmouse measures 5.5–5.9 in and weighs 0.6–0.8 oz. Perches, ports and landing surfaces need to fit that frame — too small and the bird can't feed comfortably, too open and larger birds and squirrels dominate.

Keep it clean

Scrub feeders every two weeks in hot soapy water, soak 10 minutes in a 1:9 bleach solution, rinse and dry before refilling. Rake up hulls underneath.

Frequently asked

What kind of feeder is best for black-crested titmice?

Tube feeder with short perches. Suits small clinging and perching birds and keeps seed dry.

What should I put in a feeder for black-crested titmice?

Sunflower, Suet, Peanuts.

Where should I place a feeder for black-crested titmice?

Replaces Tufted Titmouse in central and south Texas; the two hybridize where they meet.

Sources

  1. Black-crested Titmouse — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  2. Black-crested Titmouse life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
  3. Black-crested Titmouse — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
  4. NestWatch nest box plans and species requirements — Cornell Lab

Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.