A small, mainly brown bird, the marsh tit (Poecile palustris) boasts a black cap, dark bib, and pale belly. It is very similar in appearance to the willow tit. In spite of its name, this bird is found in woodland, copses, parks, and gardens rather than in wetland areas. The marsh tit is roughly 14cm in length and has a wingspan of 16-19 cm.
What is the marsh tit’s distribution and population?
Marsh tits are seen across England and Wales, most commonly in south Wales and eastern England. Their numbers have declined by a disturbing 50% over the last 25 years. The causes of the falling population are not fully understood. However, it is believed that woodland drainage, losses of deadwood and a reduction in shrubs caused by grazing deer may be all be factors in the decline of marsh tits. Urban developments encroaching on the Marsh tit’s natural habitats could also have been problematic.
There are now just 340, 000 breeding pairs in the UK. The marsh tit is red-listed as a species of serious conservation concern.
What marsh tits eat?
These birds favour insects, seeds and berries. If food is bountiful, they may hoard seeds to create a food supply for more barren times. The marsh tit benefits from a large hippocampus, the portion of the brain which controls memory and so the birds are good at finding their food stashes. Marsh tits will visit gardens near woodland and will feed on peanuts, sunflower seeds and suet fat balls.
Where do marsh tits nest?
It is the female bird that builds the nest. This is a cup of moss lined with feathers and hair which will be constructed in deciduous trees including willows and alders. Marsh tits will also occasionally use nesting boxes. The female lays 5-11 eggs which she incubates herself for 13-17 days. The chicks are fed by both parents and fledge after 16-21 days.
Did you know?
The marsh tit is so similar to the willow tit that ornithologists didn't realise they were two different species until 1897.