The Sassy Juniper Titmouse

Nature lovers know that beyond the sweeping vistas of Ouray, Colorado, the wildlife is just as fascinating and colorful. Today we’d like to focus on the curiously named juniper titmouse, a type of passerine bird typically gray in color with a tuft of feathers on the head. Its color may not be anything special, but the juniper has plenty of attitude.

Quite the chirpy bird, it can be heard throughout the year and it is also known for its acrobatic abilities, sometimes seen dangling upside down from branches. Unlike most birds that migrate away from the winter season, the juniper will duke it out by storing suet and sunflower seeds in places where they can be retrieved to eat during the season. These birds make use of nest boxes, which means homeowners can add one to their yard for the birds to use as a sanctuary, provided there is an attached predator guard.

Speaking of nests, a female, incubating juniper titmouse is highly protective during this period. She will try and minimize the odds of having to leave the nest and, in keeping with the bird’s penchant for attitude, will hiss similar to a snake if her nest is disturbed.

This update is provided by Twins Peaks Lodge & Hot Springs. Our Ouray lodging, full-service hotel has seven different room types including rooms for couples or families with children. Our amenities include Ouray Colorado hot springs, a free breakfast, spectacular vistas of the mountains, and much more. For additional information about us or Ouray, please call 800.207.2700 or visit us at 125 3rd Avenue Ouray, Colorado 81427.