The Marsh Tit

Poecile palustris

The Marsh Tit is very similar in appearance to the Willow Tit and the two are often confused. Similar in size to the Blue Tit but with greyish-brown above, dirty white below and black caps and bibs. There are no differences in plumage between males and females.

Size

11-12cm

Weight

12g

Habitat

Despite their name Marsh Tits are a woodland bird that favours woods, hedges and mature gardens.

Nest

Marsh Tits build their nests in existing holes in trees or walls at head height or higher.

Eggs

One clutch of 6-9 white eggs with brown spots in April-June.

Food

Insects in the breeding season, seeds and berries at other times.

Voice

Loud, sneezing pitchout-pitchou.

Characteristics

Occurs across England and Wales, with a few in southern Scotland. Abundant in S Wales and southern and eastern England. Found largely in deciduous woodland, also copses, parks and gardens, but is relatively scarce in urban areas.

BTO Statistics

Marsh Tit populations have recently declined and are red status.

Breeding

The female incubates the eggs for 13-15 days and fledging occurs 17-20 days after hatching. Both males and females will feed the young until they leave the nest.

Feeding

Eats insects during the breeding season, and seeds, berries and nuts at other times. Marsh Tits are know to hoard food eating it within a few days.