The Coal Tit is the smallest of the tit family and not as colourful as some of its relatives. It can be seen all across the UK, except in far northern and western areas of Scotland.

Identification

Adult: Grey-blue upper body, rump and tail, with a double white bar across the wing. Crown and bib are glossy black, with a white patch seen on the nape.
Size: 10.5–11.5cm.
Bill: Black, short and stubby.
Legs: Black, medium length.
Habitat: Amongst conifers and mixed woodlands and often spotted on bird tables and peanut feeders in mature gardens.
Behaviour: Flits, takes off/lands on vegetation.
Flocking: 1—15.
Flight: Undulating, flitting.
Voice: High-pitched zee-zee-zee.

Breeding

Nest: Trees.
Eggs: 7—9. White with red speckles.
Incubation period: 14—18 days.
Fledgeling: 16—19 days.
Broods: 2. April—May.
Food: Insects, suet, seeds and nuts.
UK breeding pairs: 660,000.