Chestnut-backed Chickadee

Basic Description

The Chestnut-backed Chickadee (Poecile rufescens) is a type of small bird found in western North America. They have a black cap, gray upperparts and white cheeks. The most distinctive feature of this species is its chestnut brown back and wings that extend down to their flanks. Their underparts are light gray with contrasting dark streaks on the breast and sides. This species can grow up to 5 ½ inches in size and weigh about 0.4 ounces.

Where To Find This Bird

The Chestnut-backed Chickadee is generally found along the Pacific Coast from Alaska all the way south into Mexico, though it also occurs inland in western Montana, at least as far east as Alberta, Canada. It prefers woodlands such as coniferous forests or mixed deciduous forests near water sources where they can find food more easily throughout the year.

Habitat

Chestnut-backed chickadees live in dense shrubs or trees with an abundance of insect life which provides them with ample food supplies throughout the year. They create nests inside tree cavities or abandoned woodpecker holes where they raise their young each season starting around April/May depending on region location and weather conditions.. During winter months these birds will form larger social groups when food sources become scarce allowing them to better survive harsh winter climates together for protection from predators such as hawks or other raptors looking for easy prey amongst the flock .