Identification
Large and pugnacious, this common tit is found in a wide range of wooded habitats, from dense hill forests to manicured city parks throughout much of Asia from India to Indonesia. Adult has a flashy white cheek on a black head, a black stripe on a white belly, and gray wings; East Asian birds have a hint of green near the shoulder. Juveniles are duller, replacing the adult’s black with gray. Very vocal; song is a bright “tzi-hei tzi-hei!” or “tzee-tzee-tzee-tzee”; also gives loud chips, seeps, and harsh scolding “tzi-tzi-tzshhhhhh.” Formerly treated as two separate species, Japanese Tit and Cinereous Tit.