The Wind-Blown Look of a Tufted Titmouse

If you’ve ever spent time observing Tufted Titmice, you know they often bring a bit of character to the backyard. But occasionally, nature adds its own flair, as shown in this shot of a particularly windswept titmouse perched at my feeder here in Arkansas.

Tufted Titmice (Baeolophus bicolor) are easy to identify with their small, stocky build and distinctive gray crest. Usually, their feathers lay neatly groomed, but the gust of wind here gave this bird a unique, spiky look. The result was a striking photo that tells a lighthearted story of a moment in time.

Why the Crest Matters

The crest isn’t just for show. While it gives the bird its unmistakable profile, the tuft of feathers also serves as a form of communication. Titmice will raise or lower their crests depending on their mood:

• Raised Crest: Often signals excitement, curiosity, or alertness.
• Lowered Crest: Indicates a more relaxed or calm state.

In this photo, the raised crest combined with the wind’s influence creates a quirky expression, almost as if this bird had its own wild “bad hair day.”

The Backstory at the Feeder

This particular titmouse, like many of its kind, is a regular visitor at my feeders. They’re drawn to sunflower seeds and suet, often darting in quickly to grab food and retreating to a nearby branch to eat. Their quick, agile movements and inquisitive nature make them fun subjects to photograph.

The unexpected gust of wind gave this titmouse a little extra character—a fun reminder that even common backyard birds can provide moments of surprise. It’s moments like these that I look forward to when I’m out observing and photographing wildlife.

To learn more about the Tufted Titmouse, check out this excellent guide from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Tips for Photographing Tufted Titmice

If you want to capture these charismatic birds:

1. Be Ready: Titmice are quick. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze their movement.
2. Focus on the Eyes: Their large, dark eyes give them an expressive look. Keep the focus sharp there.
3. Look for Interaction: Whether it’s wind ruffling their feathers or their interactions with other birds, small moments can tell a bigger story.

Next time you see a Tufted Titmouse at your feeder, take a closer look. Even a simple moment, like this wind-blown encounter, can turn into something memorable.