Parus major Linnaeus, 1758 · sýkorka veľká · Great Tit

Distribution

The Great Tit occurs across much of Europe, north-west Africa and extensive parts of Asia. Slovakia lies within its continuous European range. It is one of our commonest breeding birds and can be encountered throughout the year, from the lowlands to mountain forests, although it becomes scarcer at higher elevations. Some birds move between areas, and in winter the resident population is joined by visitors from farther north and east.

Habitat

The easiest places to find it are gardens, parks, orchards and open deciduous or mixed woodland. It needs trees and shrubs offering nesting places and plenty of insects. In winter it joins mixed flocks with other tits and regularly visits bird feeders.

Breeding

It nests in tree holes, nest boxes and suitable openings in buildings. The female builds a nest largely of moss, lining it with soft material. In spring she lays a large clutch, often seven to nine eggs. The female incubates, both parents feed the chicks, and some pairs produce a second brood.

Food

In spring and summer it gathers insects, caterpillars and spiders, which are also important food for the chicks. Seeds and other plant foods become more prominent in autumn and winter.

Interesting fact

A single Great Tit can confuse a listener with its varied vocal repertoire. Alongside its familiar two-note song, it produces many contact and alarm calls: several different sounds from a treetop do not necessarily mean several different bird species.

Sources: Slovak Wikipedia · BTO BirdFacts · English Wikipedia · GBIF · RSPB – Great Tit