How to identify the Coal Tit

To correctly identify the Coal Tit (Periparus ater), 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

10-11.5 cm

Wingspan

17-21 cm

Weight

7-12 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults have a glossy black head with prominent white cheek patches and a distinctive white patch on the nape. The back is greyish-blue, and the underparts are buffy-white, often with a yellowish wash on the flanks. The wings are dark with two white wing-bars. The tail is dark grey.

2. 2

   Beak shape

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

   Small, conical, and pointed, black in color, adapted for picking insects and seeds.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Dark brown.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Dark grey to blackish.

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   The most distinctive features are the white nape patch, black cap, and white cheek patches. The two white wing-bars are also a good field mark.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are similar to adults but have a duller, more yellowish-buff wash on the underparts and cheek patches. The white nape patch may be less distinct, and the black cap can appear browner.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. Plumage may appear slightly duller or more worn outside of the breeding season due to feather abrasion.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are virtually identical in plumage. There are no significant visual differences.

Key field marks

• Head Pattern. Look for the glossy black cap, prominent white cheek patches, and, most importantly, the distinct white patch on the nape (back of the neck).
• Wing-bars. Observe the two clear white wing-bars on the dark wings, a key distinguishing feature from Marsh and Willow Tits.
• Size and Shape. It's a small, compact tit, slightly smaller than a Blue Tit, with a relatively short tail.
• Habitat. Often found in coniferous trees, where its grey-blue back provides camouflage.
• Vocalization. Listen for its high-pitched, repetitive 'pee-choo pee-choo' song, which is faster and higher than a Great Tit's.

Explore the Coal Tit