Guide to the
Coal Tit

Our handy Coal Tit guide will help you get to know this garden bird better.

How to identify Coal Tits?

Coal Tits are slightly smaller than Blue Tits, with buff upperparts and a bluish-grey back. They have a characterised head pattern with a black bib, white cheeks and a black bib, white cheeks and a black cap running down to the base of its neck at the sides. They also have a distinctive rectangular patch running from the top of the head down to the neck.

What do Coal Tits sound like?

Coal Tit song follows a similar two note rhythm to that of a Great Tit. However, it is higher pitched and faster.

What predators do Coal Tits have in gardens?

Mainly Sparrowhawks.

What do Coal Tits eat?

Insects and spiders, with seeds also taken in winter, mostly from other branches and conifers.

How numerous are Coal Tits?

According to statistics from 2016, there were 590,000 pairs of Coal Tits in Britain and 660,000 pairs of Coal Tits in the UK.

How long do Coal Tits live for?

Coal Tits typically live for around two years. However, the current longevity record for this species is nine years and three months.

When are Coal Tits most frequently seen in gardens?

According to Garden BirdWatch data, which has been collected since 1995, they are most frequently seen in gardens in November, in around 57% of gardens.

Are Coal Tits increasing or declining in gardens?

Coal Tits have increased in gardens since Garden BirdWatch began. Although the reasons behind population fluctuations of this species are unknown, it is likely that mild winters and supplementary feeding in gardens are contributing factors to this increase.

When do Coal Tits nest?

Coal Tits nest between April and June. They lay up to 10 eggs which are incubated for up to 16 days. The young fledge after around 20 days.

Do Coal Tits use nestboxes?

Yes, Coal Tit use nestboxes with an entrance hole of 28mm.

What can I do to help Coal Tits in my garden?

By providing food and a fresh, clean supply of water for them.

 

This bird guide has been written in collaboration with experts at the British Trust for Ornithology. To find out more about their vital work, visit: www.BTO.org

Food Recommended for Coal Tits

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