Willow Tit

Once one of the most common forest birds in Finland, the willow tit has declined dramatically and is now endangered.

Smaller than the great tit, with a relatively large head and thick neck. It is grey overall, with a darker back, white cheeks, and a black cap and throat patch.

A forest species that breeds in coniferous and mixed forests. It prefers old, mature woodland and excavates a new nesting cavity each spring in a decaying tree stump, usually birch.

Found across northern and central Europe and parts of Asia. In Finland it occurs throughout the country, while in Italy it is mainly restricted to Alpine regions. In Romania and Slovenia it is most common in mountainous forests.

Feeds mainly on insects, spiders and other small invertebrates. In autumn it hides hundreds of food caches in lichens and tree bark, helping it survive the winter. It also visits bird feeders.

The willow tit excavates its own nest cavity in soft, decaying wood, usually creating a new nest site every year. The availability of dead wood is essential for successful breeding.

A resident bird, although young birds may disperse short distances. During autumn and winter, it often forms mixed flocks with other forest birds, such as crested tits, goldcrests and treecreepers, which helps improve protection from predators.

Globally classified as Least Concern (LC), but Endangered (EN) in Finland. The species has suffered a severe decline due to intensive forestry, habitat loss and the removal of dead wood needed for nesting. Fragmentation of old forests has further reduced its winter survival and breeding success.