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Marsh/Willow Tit, Bauska, Latvia Dec 2020 (1 Viewer)
- Thread starter Mr G.Finch
- Start date
Nutcracker
Stop Brexit!
Marsh Tit - pale spot near the base of the bill, Willow doesn't have that 
Deb Burhinus
Used to be well known! 😎
My general feeling is Marsh Tit, sorry!
There are several features here, but the overall colour grey tones, shape of head, cap and pale mark on the upper mandible all point to Marsh.
(x post with N)
There are several features here, but the overall colour grey tones, shape of head, cap and pale mark on the upper mandible all point to Marsh.
(x post with N)
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Mr G.Finch
Well-known member
Thanks for the replies!
Deb Burhinus
Used to be well known! 😎
You’re welcome - not the easiest birds to separate in the UK - always look for a conglomerate of features and learn the calls! Even in the winter, both Marsh and Willow are quite vocal and the calls are the easiest way to separate them.
A couple of links here that may help
Identification of Confusion Species #1: Marsh Tit and Willow Tit - Identify this - Wildlife - The RSPB Community
Marsh Tit (Poecile palustris) and Willow Tit (Poecile montana), have for many years provided ornithologists and birdwatchers alike with a considerable identification
community.rspb.org.uk
and this video:
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In Baltic region, these two species are somewhat easier to identify than in UK. (Well, I think I have not personally seen either species in UK, but they look difficult in photos and always cause confusion here and in other forums). In Baltic region, they are noticeably different in colour. Your second photo captures the colour of Marsh Tit quite well. Willow Tits in the same areas are greyer and paler, and their pale wing panel is also very distinct. There is some seasonal variation because of bleaching, and the birds are easier from late summer until early spring. But of course, as always said, easiest and fastest from calls.
Deb Burhinus
Used to be well known! 😎
Yes, easier on the continent- the sub-sp in the UK (P.p.dresseri) is slightly smaller and darker than the larger and greyer nominate P.p.palustris. (P.m.borealis is larger and greyer than the British race of Willow too so the latter much more similar to P.p.dresseri)
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