Long-tailed tit: A 'drop-dead gorgeous' bird on social media
By Xu Chenlu

Animal memes are very common on social media platforms as many think they are interesting and adorable. For years, a bird that was known by the title of "a drop-dead gorgeous bird" became famous for memes about its cute and fluffy appearance on Chinese social media platforms. That is the long-tailed tit.

The bird is widely distributed throughout the temperate zones of the Eurasian Continent. Because of the white plumage on its belly, it is also called by the silver-throated tit. It has a tiny, chubby body that is only 13-15 centimeters long (which includes its tail of about seven-nine centimeters) and a stubby bill.

The long-tailed tit mainly feeds on eggs and the larvae of insects like moths and butterflies. Currently, it is listed as a species of least concern by the IUCN, which means it is under little or no threat, though there were some population losses due to extreme cold weather before. Let's take a look at this lovely creature.

About 'Melody of Birds'

"Melody of Birds" is a series of pictures about lovely birds in the world. Stay tuned to see more charming bird photos under the theme.

For more:

Hoopoe: Beautiful bird with smelly defense

Guinea Fowl: The best security guard you can employ

Does forever love really exist?

Atlantic puffin: Clown of the sea

Meet the bird with a half-moon crest on its head

Melody of Birds: Beautiful birds and fantastic flowers

Melody of Birds: Cooling down in summer

An impressive bird with an enormous shoe-shaped bill

(All photos via VCG)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com)