Black-capped Chickadee

A clear, whistled two-note phrase, often rendered as "fee-bee" (or "hey, sweetie" in some mnemonic). The first note is high-pitched and the second is about a minor third lower, giving a forlorn, whistled sound. Males sing this in late winter and spring to advertise territory.

• Chick-a-dee call: A buzzy contact and alarm call with a chick-a opening and a variable string of dee notes. More dee notes often go with a more urgent threat. “chick-a-dee-dee-dee”

Year-round resident (non-migratory) throughout its range. Chickadees generally do not migrate long distances. In certain years, some irrupt southward modestly if food crops fail, but these movements are relatively short-range and irregular.

Common in any habitat with trees or woody shrubs across its range. Found in deciduous and mixed forests, forest edges, groves, and also frequenting suburban yards, city parks, and orchards. Prefers areas with some cover; absent in open plains or high treeless alpine zones.

Forms winter flocks typically from late summer through early spring. These flocks (6-10 birds) often include other small birds (nuthatches, kinglets, downy woodpeckers, warblers) that associate with chickadees to find food and heed their alarm calls. In late winter, increasing daylight triggers males to start singing their fee-bee song.

A tiny, active songbird with a large round head, short neck, and relatively long tail. Easily recognized by its black cap and bib, stark white cheeks, soft gray back, and light buffy flanks. The body is small and compact, with a short, stout bill. Often seen in flocks, it is inquisitive and acrobatic, frequently hanging upside down on twigs.