 The largest of the Tit family with a striking glossy black cap, collar and throat with white cheeks. It has a distinctive black line running down its yellow breast and belly. It is a woodland bird which has become a familiar garden visitor and often be seen fighting off other birds on the bird table. In winter it commonly joins up with blue tits in roaming flocks searching for food.
| Size |
14cm |
| Weight |
14 to 22gm |
| Habitat |
Open deciduous woodland, parkland and gardens. Prefers mature trees with nestholes but can be encouraged to use nestboxes. Will often feed on the ground as well as trees and bushes. |
| Nesting |
Made up of moss and is lined with fur, feathers and hair. Often nests in a hole in a tree or building but frequently uses nestboxes. |
| Eggs |
Between 6 and 11 |
| Incubation |
12 to 15 days; fledging - 16-22 days |
| Feeding |
Insects, fruits, seeds and nuts. Caterpillars in summer. |
| Voice |
Has a wide variety of songs but a call similar to a sharp "chink, chink" can often be heard. |
| Breeding pairs |
1.7 million in the UK |
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