Mexican Chickadees ( are small passerine birds that breed in montane coniferous forests in Mexico and the southwestern United States from April to July. They are commonly found in pine-oak forests and mixed coniferous forests, which are characterized by dense stands of pine, oak, and other deciduous trees where insects and seeds are abundant during the breeding season.
They forage in the mid-canopy and understory layers of these forests for caterpillars, beetles, spiders, and pine seeds. They may also feed on small berries and other seeds.
Mexican Chickadees are adept at maneuvering through dense foliage and can hang upside down to access food. They cache food in hidden locations for later use.
Courtship involves males singing softly to attract females and performing fluttering displays. Males may present food to females, reinforcing pair bonds.
Both females and males may excavate cavities or claim natural or abandoned cavities in dead or decaying trees, often in pines or oaks. These cavities are usually located 2 to 8 meters above the ground in forested areas with dense undergrowth. Cavities are lined with moss, animal hair, plant fibers, and feathers.
Egg laying occurs from late April to early June, with the female laying 5 to 8 white eggs with fine reddish-brown spots. Incubation lasts about 12 to 14 days, primarily by the female, while the male brings food to the nest. Both parents feed the chicks a diet of insects and small seeds upon hatching.
Chicks learn to forage under the guidance of adults, practicing pecking and gleaning techniques. As they develop, they become more adept at finding food but remain vulnerable to predators and harsh weather conditions.
Chick fledging occurs about 16 to 19 days after hatching. Continued adult guidance is crucial as fledglings refine their foraging skills and expand their diet to include a wider variety of insects and seeds.
Mexican Chickadees are generally non-migratory, though some populations may exhibit short-distance movements in response to food availability. They tend to remain within their breeding range year-round.
