Coal tits are one of the smallest birds in the British Isles, and are a much loved visitor to bird tables up and down the country. But how much do you know about them? Keep reading to learn more!
1. Coal tits have a hidden crest that raises into a small spike-shape when they are agitated.
2. From tip to tail they measure about 10cm-11cm, and only weight slightly more than a 50p coin.
3. Frequent visitors to bird feeders, they particularly love sunflower hearts and peanuts, and often carry food away from bird tables to store elsewhere.
4. Coal tits have a smaller bill in comparison to blue tits and great tits, which enables them to feed on conifer seeds.
5. A collective group of coal tits is known as a ‘banditry’ of tits.
6. Coal tits leave the nest after just 16 days, but continue to be fed by their parents for at least another two weeks.
7. There are several sub-species of coal tit, including the Irish sub-species ‘hibernicus’ which sports pale yellow cheeks.
8. Taking a leaf out of the woodpecker’s book, coal tits nest in holes in trees. However, if supplied with a nesting box they will happily set up residence there.
9. Their song is a series of high-pitched repeated phrases that have been likened to the sound of a bicycle pump.
10. Although the average lifespan of a coal tit is just 2 years, in 1983 one ringed bird was recorded at 8 years, 9 months and 26 days old!
