Displays the somewhat unique chickadee head pattern, black cap, white cheeks, and black bib. The nape, back and wings are gray. Underparts are mostly white or pale gray with pale buffy flanks. Bill is very short, thin, and pointed. Similar to Black-capped, which is brighter, larger with a larger head, and has whiter napes, more contrasting white secondaries and a larger, more ragged bib. Hybrids can occur.

Length: 12 (cm) Wingspan: 19 (cm)

Voice:

See-bee-see-bay. Chikadeedeedeedee; Higher, clearer and more rapid than Black-capped.

Habitat:

Deciduous woodlands, mixed coniferous and deciduous forests, wooded swamps, and residential areas.

Behavior:

Forages actively, often hanging upside down. Stashes food in tiny crevices. Flocks frequently, sometimes joining ranks with other small passerines to help defend winter feeding territories.

Feeding:

Eats seeds, insects, spiders and berries. Common at feeders.