Tit, Norfolk UK (1 Viewer)

[rylirk]

Hi all, any advice on how to ID this tit from Cockley Cley in Norfolk today? My understanding is both Willow and Marsh coexist here

 

[RafaelMatias]

With that buffish suffusion between the white ear-coverts and neck, and the pale spot on the base of the upper mandible, it's a straight Marsh for me.

 

[Richard D]

I like to check the wings for a panel to distinguish them but in the absence of a shot of the wings, the overall shape of the bird looks much better for Marsh. Willow's are generally stockier with a bigger head and neck.

 

[Muppit17]

Are there even any Willow Tits left in Norfolk? They are now missing in so many counties, and on the edge in even more, including here in Hampshire, I was surprised to think that they were still a possibility.

 

[PYRTLE]

Yes, one or two pairs in that area. A local birder has programmed a nestbox scheme to help this species even though they are prone to eviction by Marsh Tits and predation by GSW.

 

[stevo]

Marsh tit,pale spot on the bill.

 

[Earnest lad]

Marsh tit,pale spot on the bill.

I concur about the pale spot on the bill. By lightening up the image and zooming in I produced this crop. I hope it is helpful. If not I apologize