Hello, everyone! Today, let’s talk about the differences between two small, adorable birds: the Long-tailed Tit and Hokkaido’s Long-tailed Tit.
The simple way to distinguish them is by their “facial patterns” and “habitats”! The Long-tailed Tit is a small bird found throughout Japan, from Kyushu northwards, measuring about 13.5 cm in total length. Almost half of this length is its tail feathers, and it weighs less than 10g. In contrast, Hokkaido’s Long-tailed Tit, a subspecies of the Long-tailed Tit, inhabits only in Hokkaido. The main difference between them is the face: Hokkaido’s Long-tailed Tit has a completely white face, while the Long-tailed Tit has black markings resembling eyebrows.
Hokkaido’s Long-tailed Tit, with its charming appearance, is often called the “Snow Fairy” and has become very popular on social media. Its back is mixed with black and brown feathers, but its belly and face are pure white, resembling a tiny fairy in the snow. This appearance has led to the creation of many plush toys and merchandise.
In autumn and winter, Long-tailed Tits join mixed flocks of the Tit family, flying around with various birds. They often lead the flock, followed by birds of the Woodpecker family. The smallest bird in Japan is the Goldcrest, measuring 10 cm in total length, but the Long-tailed Tit is known for having the shortest beak among Japanese birds. They feed on very small items, such as eggs of insects laid on tree branches.
The Long-tailed Tit’s call is a thin “chee” sound, similar to other small birds in the Tit family, but its unique soft “trulyu” sound is distinctive. Next time you’re in the forest, listen carefully for the call of the Long-tailed Tit. You’re sure to be captivated by its cute appearance.
That’s all about the Long-tailed Tit and Hokkaido’s Long-tailed Tit. See you again soon!
