Crested Tit (Lophophanes cristatus)
The Scottish Crested Tit may appear a little dull. It is however one of the most sought after birds for birders visiting Scotland. In the UK the Crested Tit is to be found in the Caledonian forest and Pine plantations around the highlands of Scotland.
Every year wildlife enthusiasts visit the Scottish highlands and Caledonian pine forests with the Crestie being top of the list as a target species. In search of the Crestie …
Where to See Crested Tit
The primary sites to spot Scottish Crested Tit are in the Caledonian forest. In particular the area around Loch Garten and Loch Mallachie. This range stretches from the pine forests of Strathspey to the Moray Firth.
The Crested Tit can also be found in west highland forest glens. This includes Glens of:
- Glen Affric
- Strath Bran
- Strathconon
- Strathfarrar
- Glen Moriston
- Strathfarrar
- Glen Garry
Scotland’s bird Club (SOC) provided a good reference indicating Crested Tit distribution in their publication “The Breeding Birds of North-East Scotland”. Unfortunately now out of print. A sample of the report relating to the Crested Tit can be found here – http://www.the-soc.org.uk/docs/ne-scotland-atlas-sample.pdf
When to see Scottish Crested Tit
The Crested Tit can be seen all year round in the Scottish highlands. However is probably best seen during autumn to spring. There are a number of factors that make spotting the Scottish Crested Tit much easier during the Winter.
During late spring and summer the forest is rich with insect life. At this time Scottish Crestie spend much time foraging for insects and seed high in the canopy.
The Scottish Crested Tit is highly territorial during the breeding season. The breeding population of Cresties fluctuates with an estimate of about 1,000 – 2,000 breeding pairs.
During the winter the population increases significantly between 5,500 – 7,900 birds. Winters in the Caledonian forest can be harsh. Cresties often flock with mixed groups of Coal, Blue and Great Tits. The Scottish Crested Tit also stores food during the winter.
The Crested Tit will come to bird feeders during winter. They will also come to ground for stored food or water. When watching for the Scottish Crestie around feeding sites pay particular attention to the ground below and around feeders. Because they prefer to pick up seed and nut fragments from the ground rather than directly from a feeder.
A simple way to attract the Crested Tit during winter months is to place ground nuts on a log placed on the ground. If you have never visited the highlands during the winter or early spring the search for the Scottish Crestie could be a good excuse. Need some further reasons? The Ptarmagan and mountain hare in their white winter coats. See snow bunting in large winter flocks.