Active, talkative, curious forest birds. Common year-round in the Eastern US. Prefers woodlands and parks, common at feeders, especially in winter. Large for a small songbird; crested, with small, stout bill; gray above and pale below, with black above bill and eye and orangey flanks. Frequently scolds intruders in their habitat and are often with mixed flocks. Forage on branches for insects, and also for seeds, often caching them one at a time. Nest in existing tree holes which they line with soft material, often fur or hair; may use nest boxes. Lifespan up to 13 years. Population ~ 8 million and increasing.