Periparus ater
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Mass
~9 g
Habitat
Forests
Diet
Insects and invertebrates
How to recognize it
The Coal Tit is a small, lively tit with a compact body and a short tail. It is easiest to remember by the black cap, pale cheeks, and the small white patch at the back of the head.
It moves quickly and restlessly, often working through tree crowns and hanging upside down from twigs. Its voice is thin and bright, and in the breeding season the male often sings from a high perch.
It is most closely tied to conifer woods, especially spruce forests, but in winter it readily comes to gardens, parks, and feeders. In summer it feeds on insects and larvae, then switches to seeds from conifers, often taking them straight from the cones.
Quick Facts
The Coal Tit is a small, lively tit with a compact body and a short tail. It is easiest to remember by the black cap, pale cheeks, and the small white patch at the back of the head.
It moves quickly and restlessly, often working through tree crowns and hanging upside down from twigs. Its voice is thin and bright, and in the breeding season the male often sings from a high perch.
It is most closely tied to conifer woods, especially spruce forests, but in winter it readily comes to gardens, parks, and feeders. In summer it feeds on insects and larvae, then switches to seeds from conifers, often taking them straight from the cones.
