Coal Tit
As part of the countdown to TAFU’s Local Wildlife Day on the 11th of July – Species no. 32.
Stay tuned – 11 more days and 11 more species until then!
The Coal Tit (Periparus ater) is one of the smallest birds in the tit family, measuring about 12 cm in length and weighing around 9-10 g. It is easily identified by its black cap, white cheeks, greyish back, and buff underparts. The white patch on the nape is a distinctive feature that also helps identification. Coal Tits have a slender bill suited for foraging insects in the bark of trees, particularly in coniferous woodlands.
Coal Tits are widespread across Europe and Asia, inhabiting a variety of habitats including coniferous forests, mixed woodlands, gardens, and parks. They are resident birds, meaning they do not migrate but may move locally to find food during the winter or avoid severe weather.
These birds are known for their lively and acrobatic nature, often seen hanging upside down from trees to reach food. Their diet primarily consists of insects, spiders, seeds, and nuts. Coal Tits are also known for their behaviour of hoarding food in several different crevices to eat later called “scatter hoarding”.
During the breeding season, Coal Tits build nests in tree cavities, old stumps, or even in nest boxes. The female lays 8-10 eggs, which are incubated for about 16 days. Both parents feed the chicks, which fledge about 20 days after hatching, at which point the pair may decide to undertake a second brood. Coal Tits are monogamous and mate for life.
Ensuring our green areas are full of native shrubs and trees will provide natural food sources and nesting sites for these tits!
