willow tit ?

[denn]

can somebody please confirm, if i am right of course, that this little fella is a willow tit. many thanks. denn

[diggleken]

oh no, here we go again!
I suggest (!) this one is marsh tit, glossy crown and all.
Ken

[denn]

oops what have i started, just noticed a recent heated debate on the issue, its good though isnt it.
denn.

[Jason Green]

I will go for... Willow tit this time as the white cheeks don't extend down the chest, or is that the Marsh tit... no, Willow. I think.

[Rob_D]

I think it maybe a Marsh Tit as it has a pale patch at the base of its bill.

But having recently read a discussion on (Cambs or Herts?) county bird group with opinions from expert ringers saying it is really very hard to tell by plumage/shape, I am now very loathe to go by looks! It was claimed the pale beak patch is very reliable, though it's really hard to see even from a good photo.

Good photo though!

[Hedge Witch]

I would guess Willow Tit from the overall shape and the extent of the black cap.

Is this the only shot you have, denn?

[Morph]

My guess is its a Marllow Tit

[Jason Green]

Oh, a cross-breed. I hadn't considered that one...

[denn]

im sticking with willow tit guys, thanks for the comments.
denn.

[denn]

just to liven the debate a little, hope you don't mind, this picture may not be the same bird, but is it a juvenile due to the dark marks to its neck area or is that the norm, i have not noticed before, again thanks.



denn.