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Blue Tit, Identification, Habitat and Food
By Ark Wildlife
20th August 2013
Identification
Length: 12 cm
Easily identified as it is the only tit with blue wing, tail and crown. The chest is yellow and the blue tit has white cheeks. A black line runs through the eye, round the nape and cheeks. A white border surrounds the blue crown, while the back is a greenish colour, with yellow colouration on the rump. The bill is black with a brownish tip, legs are a deep slate blue.
The female has a slightly less vivid colouration.
Young blue tits have have more greenish-brown upper parts and yellowish cheeks.
Call
Most typical of the many calls is a scolding ‘tsee-tsee-tseet’. Song is a cheery ‘tsu-tsuhu-hu’.
Reproduction
Breeding starts from mid-April. They nest in holes or cavities, usually in a tree or wall, but also in banks and nest boxes. A nest is a cup of moss, leaves, hair and grass which is lined with down, feathers and hair. The female builds the nest and lay seven to twelve (sometimes five to sixteen) eggs. They are a smooth glossy white with a variable amount of purple-red or reddish-brown speckles. The female alone will incubate the eggs for twelve to sixteen days. Both tend the young who remain in the nest for fifteen to twenty-three days.
Habitat
Blue tits like areas with scattered trees, including town parks and gardens. Also common in hedgerows.
Natural Food
Mainly insects and larvae, also fruits.
Where to Feed
Feeder – Ideally above 1m in height
Table – Open topped or covered
Ground – Not Suitable