Varied tit (Sittiparus varius)

Varied tit with a seed in its bill on a mossy branch in profile, Tokyo
Varied tit (Sittiparus varius) – This photo was taken in Tokyo, Japan

At a glance

Classification

Scientific name

Sittiparus varius

Photography tips:

  • Lens: 400 mm or greater
  • Difficulty level: easy

The Varied Tit, also known as the Japanese Tit or Persian Tit, is a songbird species belonging to the family Paridae. It measures approximately 12 cm in length and weighs between 10-14 g. It is distinctively colored, with a black head and white face. The neck, shoulders, and upper back are bright blue, while the belly and flanks are orange. The wings and tail are bluish-gray.

The Varied Tit is widespread in many parts of Asia, from Turkey and the Caucasus to Central Asia, China, Korea, and Japan. Its habitat includes both deciduous and coniferous forests, as well as cultivated landscapes such as orchards and parks. The species is mostly sedentary and forms monogamous pairs throughout the year.

The Varied Tit’s diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and seeds, which it searches for in trees and bushes.