Coal Tit song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Coal Tit, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

A high-pitched, repetitive 'pee-choo pee-choo pee-choo' or 'wit-chee wit-chee wit-chee' song, often described as sounding like a bicycle pump. It is faster and higher-pitched than the Great Tit's song.

Calls

Various calls include a sharp 'tsee-tsee-tsee', a thin 'sitt' or 'tsit', and a scolding 'churr' when alarmed. They also have a 'tiss-sii' contact call.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season (spring and early summer) but can be heard year-round, especially when foraging in flocks.

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