Gardens are a haven for wildlife, providing a safe space to feed, nest and breed. Among the many birds that make their home in gardens, the great tit is a particularly beloved species. With its distinctive yellow and black colouring and its cheerful song, the great tit brings joy to gardeners and wildlife watchers alike.
History and Habits
The great tit is a member of the Paridae family, which includes the blue tit, coal tit, and marsh tit. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa, but has been introduced to New Zealand and Australia. It is a common sight in gardens, parks, and woodlands, and is a frequent visitor to bird feeders.
The great tit has a curious and inquisitive nature, and is particularly fond of open spaces. It is an active bird, and can often be seen darting between trees or flying through the air in search of food.
Identifying a Great Tit
The great tit has a distinctive colouring, with a bright yellow chest and black head, wings, and tail. Its beak is black, and its eyes are dark brown. It has a wingspan of around 20-25 cm, and is roughly 15-17 cm in length.
The great tit is also easily identifiable by its song, which is a loud, cheerful “tee-cher, tee-cher”. It is a very vocal bird, and can often be heard singing from the treetops.
Feeding Great Tits
The great tit is an omnivore, and its diet consists of a variety of foods including seeds, nuts, fruits, insects, and even small birds. It is a frequent visitor to bird feeders, and will happily take advantage of a free meal.
The best way to attract great tits to your garden is to provide a variety of food sources. A bird feeder filled with a mixture of seeds, nuts, and fruit is a great way to attract them. You can also provide nesting boxes, as great tits are cavity nesters and will use them to raise their young.
Gardening for Great Tits
Gardening for great tits is a great way to provide them with a safe and welcoming habitat. Planting native trees and shrubs will provide them with food and shelter, as well as nesting sites. Planting a variety of flowering plants will also attract insects, which will provide a food source for the great tit.
Enjoying Garden Birds
The great tit is a delightful bird to watch, and is sure to bring joy to any garden. It is a hardy species, and is relatively easy to attract to your garden. With a little effort, you can create a haven for great tits, and enjoy the beauty of these birds all year round.