Tufted Titmouse

The tufted titmouse (Baeolophus bicolor) is a small songbird native to eastern North America. The species belongs to the tit and chickadee family (Paridae). The black-crested titmouse, found from central and southern Texas southward, was included as a subspecies but now is considered a separate species, Baeolophus atricristatus. == Etymology == The generic name Baeolophus translates to "small crested" and is a compound of the Ancient Greek words βαιός: baiós meaning "small", and λόφος: lóphos meaning "crest". The specific name bicolor means "two-colored". == Description == Measurements: Length: 14–16 cm (5.5–6.3 in) Weight: 18–26 g (0.63–0.92 oz) Wingspan: 20–26 cm (7.9–10.2 in) A small bird, the tufted titmouse has a white front and gray upper body outlined with rust-colored flanks. Other characteristics include its black forehead and the tufted gray crest on its head. In juveniles, the black forehead is greatly diminished such that it may be confused with the oak titmouse, although their ranges do not overlap. Males tend to be larger than females. The song of the tufted titmouse is usually described as a whistled peter-peter-peter, although this song can vary in about 20 notable ways. == Distribution and habitat == The habitat of the tufted titmouse is…