Willow Tit or Marsh Tit

[johnpw]

I believe this bird is a Willow Tit but would be very grateful for the views of the experts. Photo taken today in West Kent.

[Wild-Woman]

I think this is a Marsh Tit as the bib under the beak is quite small. Let others check though.

[sunnydale]

I also think Marsh Tit. The black extends further down the back of the neck on a W.T.

[Adam Cheeseman]

Marsh Tit.

Cheers,

Adam

[Ruth Daniel]

Beautiful images John!
I'll go along with the experts on the ID!

[badgerwatcher]

Lovely pictures. I always end up deciding Marsh. I'm not sure I've ever seen a Willow tit.

[Rob_D]

Very nice photos.

Think it's a marsh tit.

[Hedge Witch]

Also:

Marsh Tits often have a pale mark at the base of the bill and this can extend along the cutting edge while Willow Tits generally lack this feature. Unless the views are extremely good this feature will probably be of limited use in the field, but apparently it can be very reliable for in-hand examination.

It's a great shot john, and this feature is evident, I think.

[johnpw]

Thanks a lot everyone. As always, very helpful and useful tips. I was misled as my book said that the Marsh Tit has a glossy head and it didn't look very glossy to me. The light was rather dull though.

[DuncanE]

Not another Willow/Marsh post!

I'd say Marsh also... It seems people have got straight to the point this time!