Azure Tit

Parus cyanus (Pallas, 1770)

2016-02-13 Gorskaya poima. Barnaul.	© Alexei Ebel

Biology

Common, in places rare resident. Inhabits the deciduous and riparian forests, groves, gardens, and occasionally reed-beds with shrubs; the mixed and coniferous forests with shrubs undergrowth; both on plains and in mountains at altitudes up to 2500 m. On dispersal prefers the deciduous forests and groves. Breeds in separate pairs far one from another. Pairs are formed since mid-February. Nest is located in tree hole, in cavities of human constructions (readily nests in nest-boxes), in pile of old reeds; and even in Muskrat burrow; nest is built for about two week from the thin twigs, dry grass and moss and is lined with plenty of hair, feathers or cotton-wool. Generally nest is located low above the ground. Clutch of 4-9 eggs is laid in early May to early July; female incubates clutch for 13-14 days. Both parents feed juveniles which fledge in mid-June to early August. Though the breeding time is very long the number of reared per season broods is unknown. In August-September, as soon as moulting finishes the Azure Tits begin to disperse singly, in pairs or in groups up to 15-20 birds.

References