Taiwan Yellow Tit

The Taiwan Yellow Tit (Machlolophus holsti) is an avian species endemic to Taiwan and a highly representative endemic bird of the tit family. It is primarily distributed in forests of mid-to-high altitude mountainous areas, commonly found in broadleaf forests and mixed coniferous-broadleaf forests at altitudes of approximately 700 to 2,500 meters. The most striking feature of the Taiwan Yellow Tit is its yellow to yellowish-green face and underparts, topped with a distinct black crest on its head. Below the crest and in the center of the nape are white feathers. Its wings and tail feathers are black, with blue-gray edges on the wings, giving it a very vibrant appearance. It mainly feeds on insects and typically forages in the upper layers of forests, searching for food hidden among branches and leaves. During the breeding season, it perches on higher branches to sing, with a cheerful and varied call. Taiwan Yellow Tits usually move alone or in pairs. Outside the breeding season, they often form mixed flocks with other tits and small birds, foraging together in the forest. It is a rare resident bird in Taiwan and a species in need of conservation. When you spot a flash of yellow in the mountains, take a closer look at the treetops. That distinctive black 'little crown' might just be the endemic Taiwan Yellow Tit. Image source: https://share.google/IufGrcqNkoNNMELK9