You might spot a black-capped chickadee futtering here and there at your feeder this fall — it is Calgary’s official bird, after all.
But that wasn’t always the case. It was only a mere three years ago that the friendly little bird was selected in a city-wide vote.
Among other stiff competition — including the black-billed magpie, northern flicker, red-breasted nuthatch, and blue jay — it was the chickadee who managed to capture Calgarians’ hearts.
The black-capped chickadee was awarded the title of Calgary’s first official bird at Weaselhead Natural Area in May 2022.
The feisty and friendly feathered friend was honoured by Councillor Corrine Eagletail of the Tsuut’ina First Nation, Councillor Kourtney Penner of the City of Calgary, Alvin First Rider, Blood Tribe Land Management Environmental Technician, and Norm Running Rabbit of the Siksika First Nation.
Here’s what you should know about this resilient and charming little bird that is beloved by Calgarians, plus when to expect to see them in your yard.
Natural survivalists
Black-capped chickadees (Poecile atricapillus) are northern forest birds that range throughout Canada as non-migratory birds.
They stay in their homes all winter, eating seeds and insects, and mate for life.
The Breeding Bird Survey indicated that populations of black-capped chickadee in Canada have shown a long-term moderate increase since 1970.
That means this resilient little fellow isn’t leaving anytime soon!
You can expect to see these friendly little fuzzballs all year round in Calgary, and they are especially grateful to dine on sunflower seeds from your bird feeder during the winter months.
Highly social
Black-capped chickadees tend to nest in standing trees and rotting logs. Their ability to fluff up their feathers for insulation provides them with added warmth during Canada’s long, cold winters.
They are highly social birds with a very rigid pecking order. Chickadees at the top of the pecking order enjoy access to better food and safer hangout spots.
But they love to live in groups and are especially curious when it comes to humans. Chickadees are more likely than most birds to fly up close.
A unique call
The chickadee is known for its signature chicka-dee-dee call. However, the talented little songbird has about 15 different songs and calls, which you might recognize when you go for a walk in Calgary.
Birds will send out different calls and trills as a warning to others, and sing to one another to attract a mate.
The chickadee’s three-note fee-bee or hey, sweetie whistle is sometimes referred to as the cheese-bur-ger call by Calgary locals.
With a repertoire of songs to sing, a friendly disposition, and an irresistible fluffy face, it’s no wonder the black-capped chickadee was selected as Calgary’s most popular bird.
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