Black-capped Chickadee
Poecile atricapillus
A tiny, fearless year-round resident with a black cap and bib, white cheeks, and a cheerful 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call.
Field Note
Black-capped Chickadees hide thousands of seeds in hundreds of different spots every fall — and they can remember each one for up to a month!
Where to Spot It at ABNC
Found year-round throughout ABNC in forested areas and at nest boxes. One of the first birds to investigate nest boxes in spring.
Habitat
Why It Matters
Chickadees are key insect predators and seed dispersers. Their year-round presence makes them vital to winter forest food webs.
Good to Know
Chickadees are tiny but super brave! They'll eat right out of your hand if you're patient. Listen for their 'chick-a-dee-dee-dee' call — that's how they got their name!