Surviving Winter
Black-capped chickadee - Croton Point Park Nikon Z9 with Z 179-600 mm at 510mm 1/1200 sec, f/6.3, ISO 1100
Chickadees are highly adaptable birds that employ several strategies to survive the harsh conditions of winter.
Feeding Habits: Chickadees have robust dietary habits that help them thrive in winter. during the summer months, their diet consists of mostly insects and berries. During autumn, they cache food by hiding seeds in crevices or under bark, creating a reserve to access during the winter months when food is scarce. They also switch over to primarily seeds in winter which is why we see more chickadees at our feeders in winter than in other months.
Social Behavior: Chickadees often form flocks during winter, which provides several advantages. Flocking helps them find food more efficiently and offers protection from predators. The group dynamic also allows for communal foraging, increasing the chances of discovering food sources.
Physical Adaptations: To combat the cold, chickadees undergo some physical changes. As temperatures drop, they can fluff their feathers, trapping air for added insulation. This adaptation allows them to conserve body heat and stay warm. Notice the “puffy” appearance of the chickadee in the image above. Also note the bird’s exposed legs and feet are scaled which also reduces heat loss from these exposed parts of their bodies.
Bevioral Adaptations: Chickadees are known for their ability to enter a state of torpor when the temperature drops significantly at night. This state of reduced metabolic rate and lowered body temperature allows them to conserve energy. They may also seek shelter in tree cavities or dense foliage to protect themselves from the cold winds and snow.
Territoriality: In winter, chickadees maintain small territories around food sources to ensure access to resources. They’ll often defend these areas against other birds, ensuring that they have enough food to survive the winter months.
By utilizing these strategies, chickadees effectively navigate the challenges of winter, ensuring their survival until spring arrives
