Once a common sight, now we only know of two breeding pairs in North Lanarkshire.
We want to save it from extinction and you can help by letting us know if you spot one. Email greenspace@northlan.gov.uk to let us know.
What does it look and sound like?
Look for a plain buff coloured bird with a black cap, the pale bib contrasts with it’s black cap. The bird has a distinctive call - repetitive, low and harsh pitched ’tschay’
Where might I see it?
Favourite haunt is wet, wooded areas with scrubby trees or deciduous woodland. Like Woodpeckers, they bore their nest holes in trees.
When might I see it?
Best and busiest time is March through to June, however can be seen all year round.
How can I help?
Put up a bird box in your garden to provide a home for Great or Blue Tits who, if they cannot find their own, sometimes take the Willow Tits’ nests. If your house is near woodland, put food out for birds in winter; a fatball or lard wrapped in chicken wire hung from a tree branch is a perfect feast.
How to identify a Willow Tit
Willow Tit
Black cap on plain buff coloured bird. Bib contrasts with its black cap.
Ale Black Cap
No bib, and is grey rather than buff
Coal Tit
Has white on back of head, wing bar, and very black under bib
