The Mar/low Tit Conundrum

Opening up this blog for discussion, we are still being visited by our willow tit, or at least what we still believe to be a willow tit. Luckily, Steffi managed to grab a shot of it, which was a miracle in itself as it never stays still long enough to get the bins on it normally. Looking at all available material, it seems the only defining clincher for this species is the absence (willow), or presence (marsh), of a pale whitish mark on the upper mandible. We have had pretty good views of the bird, in different light conditions and cannot see such a mark. It has a very obvious pale panel on the secondaries, visible even with the naked eye and its cap appears dull, rather than glossy - features of willow. However, the bib is not that large, and there is a hint of pale brown toward the back of the white cheek - features of marsh. Unfortunately, we havent heard any calls, as we only see it from inside - any attempt to open a window or go outside seems to coincide with its disappearance. Another point of debate - most material indicates willow is less likely to come to feeders than marsh, and our little fellow checked out all ours before deciding that the fatballs were to its liking, but only when the feeding activity has abated and all is quiet. So any opinion, fact, speculation, theory is welcome. Check out this link for more info.

In other, less contentious, news; the bad weather has brought lots of winter thrushes back to the valley, along with some lapwing which are now regular in the field. The starling flock is now very impressive - 500+  and today they got the fright of their lives when a peregrine (no 71 for the garden list) shot through, causing mass panic in the ranks.

Yesterday, whilst out on a walk, we saw a gathering of red kites late afternoon - around 25 - at Forge, suggesting an evening roost nearby. We'll check it again soon. Also, on our little stretch of the River Dulas, the dippers are singing, which is great to hear.