Black-capped chickadees have short plump bodies, a solid black cap and bib, and white cheeks. They are a small bird weighing only 11 g and measuring 13.3 cm in length. Their wingspans measure 20.3 cm in flight. Their backs and wings are dark greenish-gray, with some streaks of white and black adorning the wing feathers. Their bellies are white with a light-reddish color on the flanks. They have small, pointed black beaks and dark legs. Male and female chickadees are identical.
Young black-capped chickadees resemble adults, but have brighter colors with more reddish coloration on the flanks.
Average mass: 11 g.
Average length: 13.3 cm.
Average wingspan: 20.3 mm.
Other Physical Features: endothermic ; homoiothermic; bilateral symmetry
Sexual Dimorphism: sexes alike
Average mass: 10.4 g.
Average basal metabolic rate: 0.252 W.
Rights Holder: The Regents of the University of Michigan and its licensors
Bibliographic Citation: Roof, J. 2011. "Parus atricapillus" (On-line), Animal Diversity Web. Accessed September 16, 2012 at
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