Bearded tit bucket list

Historically the best place is East Bank but they are not following the rules at the moment and few are being seen.  I did speak to a photographer yesterday who had managed to get a couple of shots from halfway up the bank.  The other place that they were being seen a few weeks ago was along the path between Bishop’s Hide and E Bank car park but I think they have moved on from there.

The problem is that they are just starting to nest so are not so obvious as later in the season when they are feeding young or the young are fledged and flying around in groups.

As regards timing, my experience is not too early.  I walk up E Bank most days and, when they are around, often don’t see them on my way out (around 7am or earlier) but hear and see them on the way back an hour or two later.

Saying all that, I haven’t actually heard or seen one yet this year but I don’t stand around looking for long.

It is worth familiarising yourselves with the call as they are often heard before they are seen.

Anyway – good luck and hopefully you will get reasonable weather.  If you don’t get the Beardies you shoul see many other good birds.