How to identify the Great Tit

To correctly identify the Great Tit (Parus major), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

13.5-15 cm

Wingspan

22-25 cm

Weight

14-22 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a glossy black head and nape, prominent white cheek patches, and a distinctive black stripe running down the center of a bright yellow breast and belly. The back is olive-green, and the wings are bluish-grey with a white wing-bar. The undertail coverts are white.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   Short, conical, and stout; blackish-grey in color.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Bluish-grey

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The combination of a black head, white cheeks, olive-green back, and a prominent black central stripe on a yellow underside is diagnostic. The white wing-bar is also a good field mark.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller overall, with a yellowish-brown tinge to the black areas of the head and breast stripe. The white cheek patches are often tinged yellow, and the yellow underparts are paler. The olive-green back is also duller.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly duller due to wear towards the end of the breeding season before molting.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males typically have a broader and more continuous black stripe down the breast and belly, extending further between the legs. Females have a narrower, often broken, and less extensive black stripe. The yellow on the underside of males is often brighter.

Key field marks

• Size and Shape. A medium-sized, plump tit with a relatively short tail. Larger than Blue Tits and Coal Tits.
• Head Pattern. Look for the glossy black cap and nape, contrasting sharply with bright white cheek patches.
• Underparts. The bright yellow breast and belly with a prominent, broad black stripe running down the center is the most distinctive feature. The stripe is broader in males.
• Back and Wings. Olive-green back and bluish-grey wings with a single white wing-bar.
• Vocalization. Listen for its characteristic 'teacher, teacher' song, a clear, ringing, two-note or three-note phrase, often repeated.
• Behavior. Active and agile, often seen clinging upside down on branches or foraging on the ground. Readily visits bird feeders.

Explore the Great Tit