Description
The coal tit (Periparus ater) is a small species of tit with a widespread range across Europe and Asia. It is distinguishable by its petite size, measuring only about 10-11.5 cm (3.9-4.5 in) in length and weighing between 7-10 grams (0.25-0.35 oz). The species has a distinctive glossy black head with white cheeks and a white nape patch, setting it apart from other tits. Its back is grey with a buff-white underside. The coal tit somewhat resembles the significantly larger great tit (Parus major), but the coal tit has more subdued colors, lacking the larger species’ yellow belly and green back.
Diet & habitat
The coal tit is found in a variety of woodland habitats, from lowland deciduous forests to high-altitude coniferous woods. Its habitat preference includes mature coniferous and mixed forests, where it utilizes the dense foliage for feeding and nesting.
The coal tit’s diet consists of a variety of insects and spiders during the warmer months. In winter, it adapts by consuming more seeds and conifer cones. Unlike many other tit species, the coal tit is less dependent on feeders in gardens, often preferring natural food sources in woodland areas. It also exhibits a unique behavior known as “scatter hoarding,” where it stores food in various locations for later consumption, a strategy that helps it survive the winter months. It is able to remember the locations of hundreds of food caches throughout its territory.
Nesting
Breeding season for the coal tit typically begins in late March to early April. The species is monogamous, forming pairs that work together to construct their nests in tree holes, often utilizing old woodpecker cavities or even nesting boxes. The nest is made of moss, hair, and feathers, creating a cozy environment for the eggs.
A female coal tit lays between 6 to 9 eggs, which are incubated for about 14 to 16 days. Chicks are altricial, born blind and featherless, and rely on their parents for warmth and food. They fledge approximately 18 to 22 days after hatching, with both parents participating actively in feeding the nestlings.
Status
The coal tit is widespread, has a large population and is classified as least concern by the IUCN Red List. Despite facing threats from habitat loss and climate change, the species benefits from its adaptability to different woodland environments and its ability to utilize human-altered landscapes. However, it has been seeing some declines in Europe, and particularly in Central Europe it is believed to have declined because of fewer insects due to pollution.
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