The Green-backed Tit (Parus monticolus) is a small songbird found in various Asian countries, including India, Nepal, and Vietnam. It has a distinctive greenish back and a bright yellow belly, and it typically forages in forests for insects and seeds.

Overview of the Green-backed Tit

The green-backed tit, scientifically known as Parus monticolus, is a small bird belonging to the family Paridae. It is primarily found in various regions across Asia, including:

  • Bangladesh
  • Bhutan
  • China
  • India
  • Laos
  • Myanmar
  • Nepal
  • Pakistan
  • Taiwan
  • Vietnam

Physical Characteristics

The green-backed tit measures about 11 to 13 cm in body length. It is similar in size to the great tit but is distinguished by its bright green back and belly. The female has a slightly narrower black bar on its belly compared to the male.

Habitat and Distribution

This species inhabits a range of environments, including:

  • Boreal forests
  • Temperate forests
  • Subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests

It is mainly distributed in the southern and southeastern regions of Tibet, extending southwest to central China.

Breeding Biology

Research on the breeding biology of the green-backed tit has provided insights into its reproductive strategies. Key findings include:

  • Nesting success rates: 66.2% in 2017 and 54.2% in 2018.
  • Common causes of nesting failure include predation, desertion during egg laying or incubation, and occupation by other species.
  • Clutch size tends to decline as the breeding season progresses.

These studies contribute to a better understanding of the species' life history and ecological adaptations.