Willow Tit look-alikes
Poecile montanus
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Willow Tit. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Marsh Tit
Poecile palustris
Key differences
The Marsh Tit has a glossy black cap (vs. dull sooty-black in Willow Tit), a larger, more extensive black bib, and lacks the pale wing panel of the Willow Tit. Its call is a sharp, explosive 'pitchoo' or 'pit-choo', distinctly different from the Willow Tit's harsh 'chay-chay-chay'.
Coal Tit
Periparus ater
Key differences
The Coal Tit has a glossy black cap and bib, but also a prominent white patch on the nape and two white wing-bars. Its overall plumage is darker and more contrasting than the Willow Tit.
Great Tit
Parus major
Key differences
The Great Tit is larger, with a glossy black head, white cheeks, a prominent black stripe down its yellow underparts, and blue-grey upperparts. It is easily distinguished by its size and striking coloration.
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