Here in Indiana, the Black-capped occurs in the northern region of the State, and the Carolina Chickadee occurs in the southern portions of the State. The boundary for the two species runs roughly SW to NE across the northern part of the State. The black cap and bib on white cheeks are a sure field mark of the Chickadee. Banding studies here at Chipper Woods show that individuals of this species are resident year round. They are omnivorous with a diet consisting of seeds of ragweed, mulberry, pine, redbud and sunflowers, and of insects such as aphids, treehoppers, ants, bees and others.
Sexes are similar.
Pairs remain mated for long periods that may last over two or more nesting seasons. Banding studies show that the Chickadee may live more than 10 years. These birds are cavity nesters. See the section on Nesting Behavior below for details. The Carolina Chickadee lacks the broad white edging on the secondary flight feathers that is found on the Black-capped Chickadee.